Nuclear Dimensions: Why Protons Remain Inside the Nuclear Dimension

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of protons remaining inside the nuclear dimension despite having similar charges. It is explained that this is due to the balance of repulsive and attractive forces, and that the addition of neutrons is also necessary for stability in larger nuclei. The quantum mechanics behind this phenomenon is described as a complex bound state.
  • #1
Muhammad Sabih
6
0
Despite the similar nature of charges,protons remain inside the nuclear dimension.why?
 
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  • #2
Your question is not very clear. Can you be more precise? The similar nature of charges of protons and what?
 
  • #3
Orodruin said:
Your question is not very clear

Indeed, many of your questions are not very clear. It would probably help if you spent more time composing them, thinking about exactly the sort of answer you are looking for.
 
  • #4
I think he means, similar to each other. If like repels like, how does the nucleus stay so small?
 
  • #5
Classically speaking it's easy to think of it in the following way:
Even if you have a repeling force (electromagntic), you still have an attractive one (nuclear force). So at the end as long as those two cancel each other out, protons can stay together. For larger nuclei with many protons, there needs to be enough neutrons too in order for the nuclei to be stable (as a general rule)...
Quantum mechanically you have a very complex dynamical system that exists in a bound state.
 

FAQ: Nuclear Dimensions: Why Protons Remain Inside the Nuclear Dimension

1. What is the nuclear dimension?

The nuclear dimension refers to the size or radius of the nucleus, which is the central part of an atom that contains protons and neutrons. It is typically measured in femtometers (fm), which is equal to 10^-15 meters.

2. Why do protons remain inside the nuclear dimension?

Protons, which have a positive charge, are held inside the nuclear dimension by the strong nuclear force. This force is stronger than the repulsive electromagnetic force between positively charged particles, allowing the protons to remain close together in the nucleus.

3. How is the nuclear dimension determined?

The nuclear dimension is determined by several factors, including the number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus, the nature of the strong nuclear force, and the kinetic energy of the particles in the nucleus. It can also be calculated using mathematical models and experimental techniques, such as electron scattering.

4. Can the nuclear dimension change?

Yes, the nuclear dimension can change under certain conditions. For example, during nuclear reactions, such as fusion or fission, the number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus can change, altering the overall size of the nucleus. Additionally, extreme temperatures and pressures can also affect the nuclear dimension.

5. Why is understanding nuclear dimensions important?

Understanding nuclear dimensions is crucial for many scientific fields, including nuclear physics, astrophysics, and nuclear engineering. It helps us to better understand the properties and behavior of atomic nuclei, as well as the processes and interactions that occur within them. This knowledge also has practical applications, such as in the development of nuclear energy and weapons.

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