How does the electrostatic force compare with the strong nuclear force in the nucleus of an atom?

A) The electrostatic force acts over short distances and is weaker.

B) The electrostatic force acts over long distances and is stronger.

C) The electrostatic force is only repulsive and acts over shorter distances.

D) The electrostatic force is only repulsive and acts over longer distances.

The electrostatic force is only repulsive and acts over shorter distances whereas nuclear force is strong and attractive.

Answer: C

Explanation

In an atom, the center part is known as the nucleus of the atom.

Inside the nucleus lies protons and neutrons.

Protons, the positively charged whereas neutrons have no charges but they exert masses in addition to protons.

Each proton repels from each other as they are like charges, resulting in an electrostatic force that is weak and present only in short range.

C. The electrostatic force is only repulsive and acts over shorter distance.