Chapter 15, Problem 12RQ

To determine

The term nucleon.

Answer to Problem 12RQ

The nucleon is one of the particle that reside in the nucleus of atoms, which is either a proton or neutron.

Explanation of Solution

Nucleon is the term used to denote the particles that reside inside the nucleus of an atom. It may be proton or neutron. The mass of the entire atom is decided by the nucleons in the atom.

The electrons are the sub-particles that move around the nucleus (nucleons) of the atom. The orbits are well-defined as per Bohr’s atomic model.

The neutrons are bound up by the binding energy. The binding energy between the neutrons and protons decide the stability of the atom. The nucleons participate directly in the nuclear reaction of radioactive elements. Nuclear energy is released when the nucleus of the atom gets highly unstable.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the nucleon is one of the particles that reside in the nucleus of atoms i.e., either proton or neutron.