The forces in an atomic nucleus

In summary, the forces in an atomic nucleus are the strong nuclear force, the electromagnetic force, and the weak nuclear force. The strong nuclear force is responsible for holding the protons and neutrons together in the nucleus, while the electromagnetic force is responsible for the repulsion between positively charged protons. The weak nuclear force is responsible for radioactive decay and is the weakest of the three forces. These forces work together to maintain the stability of the nucleus and determine its properties, such as atomic number and mass. Understanding these forces is crucial in understanding the behavior and structure of atoms and their nuclei.
  • #1
Leronira
11
0
In an atomic nucleus, there is protons, and neutrons. The protons are positively charged and the repel each other. However, there is an "opposing" that helps to keep the nucleus in a piece instead of breaking apart. Does anyone know what kind of force is this? And what causes this force to be present in an atom nucleus? Thanks a lot in advance.
P.S. Moderator, I think i have posted this topic in a wrong section. Please help me to move this to the appropriate section. thanks.=D
 
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  • #2
Hi,
1. nuclear force (a extremely strong force).
2. may be quarks.
 
  • #3
The dominant force holding protons and neutrons together in a nucleus (and also that holds the protons and neutrons together themselves) is the http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Strong_interaction" ' charge. Although individual protons and neutrons are color neutral overall, they are not fundamental particles and their internal structure (i.e., the color charged quarks and gluons that make them up) still allows for strong interactions between them when they are close together.
 
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Related to The forces in an atomic nucleus

1. What are the four fundamental forces in an atomic nucleus?

The four fundamental forces in an atomic nucleus are the strong nuclear force, the weak nuclear force, electromagnetism, and gravity.

2. What is the role of the strong nuclear force in an atomic nucleus?

The strong nuclear force is responsible for holding together the protons and neutrons in the nucleus. It is the strongest of the four fundamental forces and overcomes the repulsive forces between positively charged protons.

3. How does the weak nuclear force affect the stability of an atomic nucleus?

The weak nuclear force is responsible for radioactive decay in nuclei. It allows for the transformation of a proton into a neutron or vice versa, which can help stabilize an unstable nucleus.

4. What is the relationship between the forces in an atomic nucleus and nuclear binding energy?

The forces in an atomic nucleus, particularly the strong nuclear force, contribute to the nuclear binding energy, which is the energy required to break apart the nucleus. The stronger the forces, the higher the nuclear binding energy and the more stable the nucleus is.

5. How do scientists study the forces in an atomic nucleus?

Scientists study the forces in an atomic nucleus through experiments such as particle accelerators, where they can observe and manipulate the behavior of subatomic particles. They also use mathematical models and theories, such as quantum mechanics, to understand the forces at work in the nucleus.

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