Collision of Particles: What Force Causes Repulsion?

In summary, The nature of the force responsible for repulsion between particles during collision is not explicitly explained in the chapter. However, it is known that in the case of macroscopic bodies, the intermolecular force is responsible for this repulsion. This force is explained in the Feynman lectures as being vigorously repulsive at close distances and attractive at larger distances with a varying strength inversely proportional to the 7th power of the distance. As for the collision between neutrons, it is hypothesized that the force responsible could be related to the electric charge of the particles, as they are made up of quarks which are charged. Additionally, the size of a particle is not clearly defined and may be related to the strength of the
  • #1
quasar987
Science Advisor
Homework Helper
Gold Member
4,807
32
I'm reading this chapter on collision of particles and it's bugging me that they do not explain the nature of the force responsible for the repulsion betweeen the two particle when they meet. I thought about it and figured that in the case of collision of macroscopic bodies, it was the intermolecular force that is responsible for the repulsion. I read about this force in the Feyman lectures; it is vigorously repulsive past a certain distance but attractive and varying inversely with the 7th power (!) of the distance at large distances.

But what about the force responsible for collision between neutrons? What force makes them bounce off each other?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
I'm not sure about this, but the fact that neutrons are made up quarks (which are electrically charged) could explain this. In a related note, how is the "size" of a particle defined? Is it related to the strength of the field around it, or is there something else that defines it?
 

FAQ: Collision of Particles: What Force Causes Repulsion?

What is the collision of particles?

The collision of particles refers to the interaction between two or more particles that results in a change in their motion or properties.

What is the force that causes repulsion between particles?

The force that causes repulsion between particles is the electromagnetic force. This force is responsible for the repulsion between particles with like charges, such as two positively charged particles.

How does the force of repulsion between particles work?

The force of repulsion between particles works by the exchange of virtual particles, such as photons, between the particles. These virtual particles carry the force and result in the repulsion between the particles.

Can the force of repulsion between particles be overcome?

Yes, the force of repulsion between particles can be overcome by an external force, such as a stronger attractive force between the particles. This can result in the particles coming together and potentially forming a bond.

What are some real-world examples of the collision of particles and the force of repulsion?

Some examples of the collision of particles and the force of repulsion include the repulsion between two magnets, the repulsion between two electrons, and the repulsion between positively charged atomic nuclei in nuclear reactions.

Back
Top