Chapter 19, Problem 17A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The reason for why article accelerator used in bombardment processes is to be explained.

Concept introduction: A particle accelerator is a machine that uses electromagnetic fields to accelerate elementary charged particles such as electrons or protons to very high speeds and energy.They are then bombarded either on a target or against other particles moving in the opposite direction.

Answer to Problem 17A

To overcome the repulsive force between two nuclei of the charged particles accelerators are used.

Explanation of Solution

Proton present in the nucleus is positively charged. Charges of same sign repel each other and hence protons in the nucleus also repel each other. But the atom is stable because protons and the neutrons (together called nucleons) are attracted to each other by nuclear force.This force is attractive if distance between nucleons is about 1 femtometre. With increase in distance, attraction decreases. Beyond 2.5 $fm$ nuclear force is insignificant.

When nucleus of two charged particles comes closer to each other due the presence of protons they want to repel. Particle accelerator gives sufficient energy to overcome this repulsive force when the particles are bombarded with each other so that it can penetrate into the nucleus of other element.

Conclusion

To overcome the repulsive force between two nuclei of the charged particles accelerators are used.