Indefinite number of neutrons?

In summary, the stability of a nucleus is determined by the number of protons and neutrons it contains. While the strong nuclear force is equally strong for n-n, n-p, and p-p connections, having too many protons or neutrons will increase the coulomb potential and make the nucleus unstable. This is why most stable nuclides have an equal number of protons and neutrons. The asymmetry term in the semi-empirical mass formula also plays a role in determining the stability of a nucleus. Additionally, n-n connections cannot be bound, which further limits the number of neutrons that can be present in a stable nucleus.
  • #1
bemigh
30
0
I have a very basic question regarding the nucleus.

I understand why you can only have a limited number of protons within the nucleus - more and more protons within the nucleus will increase the coulomb potential and cause the nucleus to be unstable.

But why is this so for neutrons? Why couldn't I have an isotope of 50-O? The nuclear force is equally strong for n-n connections, as n-p, and p-p, so what's stopping the nucleus from having an a very large number of neutrons? When you look at a table of stable nuclides, it's pretty easy to see that most stable nuclides have equal #'s of protons and neutrons, but why is this needed? What am I missing?

Thanks
 
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  • #3
Also check out neutron drip line.

And also, n-n can not be bound.
 

Related to Indefinite number of neutrons?

1. What is an indefinite number of neutrons?

An indefinite number of neutrons refers to the concept that an atom can have any number of neutrons in its nucleus, as opposed to a specific, fixed number. This is because the number of neutrons in an atom can vary within a given element due to the presence of isotopes.

2. How does the number of neutrons affect an atom?

The number of neutrons in an atom can affect its stability, mass, and reactivity. Different isotopes of the same element with varying numbers of neutrons may have different levels of stability, which can impact the likelihood of radioactive decay. The mass of an atom is also affected by the number of neutrons, as it contributes to the overall atomic weight. Additionally, the number of neutrons can affect the reactivity of an atom, as it can influence the strength of the nuclear force within the nucleus.

3. Can an atom have an infinite number of neutrons?

No, an atom cannot have an infinite number of neutrons. Neutrons are composed of quarks and are subject to the laws of physics, which dictate that there is a maximum number of particles that can fit within a given space. Additionally, as the number of neutrons increases, so does the repulsive force between them, making it increasingly difficult for an atom to maintain stability.

4. How do scientists determine the number of neutrons in an atom?

Scientists can determine the number of neutrons in an atom by subtracting the number of protons (which can be determined by the atomic number) from the atomic mass. For example, if an atom has an atomic mass of 12 and an atomic number of 6, it must have 6 neutrons (12 - 6 = 6). This method only works for stable atoms, as radioactive isotopes may have varying numbers of neutrons.

5. What is the importance of understanding an indefinite number of neutrons?

Understanding the concept of an indefinite number of neutrons is crucial in fields such as nuclear physics and chemistry. It allows scientists to accurately predict and explain the properties and behaviors of different isotopes, as well as to manipulate and control the reactivity of atoms for various applications. Additionally, studying isotopes with different numbers of neutrons can provide insights into the fundamental properties of matter and the universe.

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