Chapter 24.2, Problem 14SSC

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The forces acting on the particles within a nucleus is to be describes and the reason of calling neutrons as glue which holds the nucleus together is to be explained.

Concept introduction:

The nucleus is present in the centre of an atom. An atom’s nucleus consists of proton which is positively charged and neutrons which is neutral. Protons and neutrons together are known as nucleons.

Answer to Problem 14SSC

The forces acting on the particles within a nucleus are electrostatic force and nuclear force.

Explanation of Solution

There is strong electrostatic force of attraction between protons in the nucleus. Despite this strong electrostatic repulsion force among protons, all nucleons (protons and neutrons) bound in nucleus because of strong nuclear force. The nuclear force which act on subatomic particles which are very much closed and overcomes electrostatic repulsion among protons.

In the nucleus two protons repel each other but neutrons are neutral due to which a neutron that is adjacent to a positively charged proton creates no repulsive force. Yet these two held together by strong nuclear force. Similarly two adjacent neutrons are held together by strong nuclear force. Therefore, neutrons are called as glue which holds the nucleus together.

Conclusion

Neutrons has important role in the stability of the nucleus.