Exploring the Spherical Shape of the Nucleus: A Scientific Inquiry

In summary, the conversation discusses the shape of a nucleus in its stable state. While nuclei are generally spherical, they can also be flattened under certain conditions. The shape is influenced by the exchange of glueons between protons and neutrons, and the continual motion between baryons. The shape is not always perfectly spherical, as seen through electric and magnetic multipole moments. There is ongoing research and discussion about the exact shape of a nucleus and potential factors that contribute to it.
  • #1
roshan2004
140
0
Why nucleus is spherical in shape in its stable state?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Could you rephrase the question?

Nuclei are generally spherical, but can be flattened under certain conditions and still remain stable. Protons and neutrons exchange glueons, etc. There's continual motion between baryons.
 
  • #3
A nucleus is typically not spherical. This can be seen via its electric and/or magnetic multipole moments.
 
  • #4
What causes the multipole moments? (I'm new here.)

Do the protons gather on one side and the neutrons on the other? My small understanding is that they nucleus is rather homogeneous, with the continual sharing of gluons and other activities.
 
  • #5
I was studying liquid drop model of nucleus and came with this similarity between nucleus and liquid drop that both of them are spherical. Liquid drop is spherical due to symmetrical forces of surface tension but don't know why nucleus is spherical in its stable state.
 
  • #6
But roshan, what we are trying to tell you is that nuclei are not in general spherical. You can't find out "why" if the statement isn't true.
 
  • #7
Sorry!
 
  • #8
There's no reason to apologise.Try googling "the shape of a nucleus".
 

Related to Exploring the Spherical Shape of the Nucleus: A Scientific Inquiry

1. What is the spherical shape of the nucleus?

The nucleus is the central part of an atom and is typically described as having a spherical shape. This means that it is approximately round and symmetrical, with no distinct corners or edges.

2. Why does the nucleus have a spherical shape?

The spherical shape of the nucleus is due to the strong nuclear force, which is the force that holds the protons and neutrons together in the nucleus. This force acts equally in all directions, resulting in a spherical shape.

3. Are all nuclei perfectly spherical?

No, not all nuclei are perfectly spherical. The shape of a nucleus can vary depending on the number of protons and neutrons it contains. Some nuclei may have slight deviations from a perfect spherical shape due to the arrangement of particles within the nucleus.

4. Can the shape of a nucleus change?

Yes, the shape of a nucleus can change under certain conditions. For example, when a nucleus undergoes radioactive decay, it can release energy and particles, causing its shape to change. Additionally, in high energy collisions, nuclei can temporarily take on non-spherical shapes.

5. How does the spherical shape of the nucleus affect its properties?

The spherical shape of the nucleus plays a crucial role in determining its properties. For example, the shape affects the stability of the nucleus and the energy required for particles to enter or leave the nucleus. It also affects the interactions between nuclei, leading to different types of nuclear reactions.

Similar threads

A Relation between nuclear shape and it spin number
    • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
8
Views
214
A When to use collective and when shell model?
    • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
0
Views
851
B Why does the nucleus become unstable as the number of nucleons increases?
    • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
12
Views
3K
I Nucleus energy levels, neutron energy
    • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
15
Views
3K
I Separation energy of nucleons and Coulomb barrier
    • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
1
Views
1K
I Understanding Nuclear Rotation: Quantum Numbers and Wavefunctions
    • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
1
Views
1K
I Electrostatic force exerted on an electron inside a nucleus
    • Classical Physics
Replies
19
Views
888
B Unpacking the Physics of Nucleus Formation & Energy Release
    • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
3
Views
2K
I Angular momentum of an Odd-Odd nucleus (in its ground state)
    • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
2
Views
2K
Understanding Spherical Symmetry of Electron Clouds in External Fields
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top