Bunch of Nuclear Physics Question, Please help me.

In summary, the size of an atom is primarily determined by the electromagnetic force, specifically the attractive Coulomb potential between the nucleus and electrons. While other fundamental forces also play a role, they are too weak to significantly affect the size of an atom. The Bohr radius, which is roughly the size of an atom, is directly related to the strength of the electromagnetic force, with weaker charges resulting in larger atoms.
  • #1
Gigacore
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1. What fundamental force will decide the size of an atom?

still I've more to ask. . . waiting for reply
 
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  • #2
There are following fundamental forces:

Gravitation: long distance force
electromagnetic force: Coulomb law
Weak force: is important in beta decay
Strong force: holds nucleons (proton, etc.) together

Since the electrons are kept near the nucleus because of the attractive Coulomb potential, the electromagnetic force decides the size of an atom.

However, in practice, this isn't just the influence of the electromagnetic force which decides the size of the atom. But it plays the leading role.
 
  • #3
The problem here is what you mean when you say "size of atom". If you mean the effective size of an atom, it goes infinity because of coulomb force, and so coulomb force eleminate the other forces.
 
  • #4
Of the 4 forces, the only one that matters is E&M - the others are too weak on the atomic scale. You can see this explicitly since the size of an atom is roughly of order the Bohr radius, which goes like 1/e^2 (so the weaker the charge, the larger the atom, as you might expect).
 

FAQ: Bunch of Nuclear Physics Question, Please help me.

1. What is nuclear physics?

Nuclear physics is a branch of physics that deals with the study of atomic nuclei and their interactions with other particles and energy.

2. Why is nuclear physics important?

Nuclear physics has many practical applications, such as in nuclear power generation, nuclear medicine, and materials science. It also helps us understand the fundamental building blocks of matter and the origins of the universe.

3. What are the main concepts in nuclear physics?

The main concepts in nuclear physics include nuclear structure, radioactive decay, nuclear reactions, and nuclear energy. These concepts help us understand the behavior of atomic nuclei and their interactions.

4. How does nuclear physics impact our daily lives?

Nuclear physics has a major impact on our daily lives through the use of nuclear energy for electricity, medical treatments such as cancer therapy, and in the production of various materials such as plastics and fertilizers.

5. What are some current research topics in nuclear physics?

Some current research topics in nuclear physics include studying the properties of exotic nuclei, developing new methods for nuclear waste management, and investigating the potential use of nuclear fusion as a sustainable energy source.

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