Question

Nucleons in nucleus are bound by

• A. electromagnetic forces
• B. electrostatic forces
• C. long-range nuclear forces
• D. short-range nuclear forces
• E. gravitational forces

Hint:

Remember:
Gravitational force = Weakest, infinite range.
Electromagnetic force = Strong, infinite range.
Strong Nuclear force = Strongest, very short range.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Nucleons (protons and neutrons) are packed tightly within a very small volume in the nucleus.
Since protons are positively charged, they experience strong electrostatic repulsion. A much stronger attractive force must exist to hold the nucleus together.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
The force responsible for binding nucleons is the Strong Nuclear Force.
Key characteristics of this force include:
1. It is much stronger than the electrostatic force.
2. It is charge-independent (acts between \(p-p\), \(n-n\), and \(p-n\)).
3. It is a short-range force, acting only over distances of about \(10^{-15} \text{ m}\) (1 femtometer).
4. Beyond this distance, the force drops to zero rapidly.

Step 4: Final Answer:
Nucleons are bound by short-range nuclear forces.