Atomic Structure: Protons & Neutrons Explained

In summary, protons and neutrons are subatomic particles found in the nucleus of an atom. They differ in charge and mass, with protons having a positive charge and a mass of 1 amu, while neutrons have no charge and also a mass of 1 amu. The number of protons and neutrons in an atom varies depending on the element, and they play a crucial role in the stability of an atom through the strong nuclear force. While they cannot be created or destroyed through chemical reactions, they can be converted into one another through nuclear reactions.
  • #1
benzun_1999
260
0
dear reader,
why are the protons embeded with the nutrons? does nutron get atrracted to protons?
 
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  • #2
Yes, the protons and neutrons feel an attration though the strong nuclear force.
 

1. What are protons and neutrons?

Protons and neutrons are subatomic particles that make up the nucleus of an atom. Protons have a positive charge, while neutrons have no charge.

2. How do protons and neutrons differ?

Protons and neutrons differ in their charge; protons have a positive charge while neutrons have no charge. They also differ in their mass; protons have a mass of approximately 1 atomic mass unit (amu), while neutrons have a mass of approximately 1 amu.

3. How many protons and neutrons are typically found in an atom?

The number of protons and neutrons in an atom varies depending on the element. However, in a neutral atom, the number of protons is equal to the number of electrons, and the number of neutrons can vary.

4. What role do protons and neutrons play in the stability of an atom?

Protons and neutrons are responsible for the stability of an atom. The strong nuclear force, which is the force that holds the nucleus together, is due to the presence of protons and neutrons.

5. Can protons and neutrons be created or destroyed?

Protons and neutrons cannot be created or destroyed through chemical reactions, but they can be created or destroyed through nuclear reactions. In nuclear reactions, protons can be converted into neutrons and vice versa.

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