Atomic nuclei are made of protons and neutrons. This fact by itself shows thatthere must be some other type of force in addition to electrical and gravitationalforces. Explain.

Question

Martin Smith

Physics

24 January, 12:15

Atomic nuclei are made of protons and neutrons. This fact by itself shows thatthere must be some other type of force in addition to electrical and gravitationalforces. Explain.

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Answers (1)

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Kale Huff · Answer 1

Protons and neutrons are packed together in a very small region called nucleus. Protons are positively charged and we know that like charges repel. Then how is it that protons are not repelling each other and flying away from nucleus?

You may think that gravitational force is holding all the protons together but it is not so. Gravitational force is many times weaker than repulsive force.

It is actually strong force which holds proton together. At this short distance, strong force comes into play and is several times stronger than the repulsive force.