The residual strong force is the force that holds atomic nuclei together, acting between protons and neutrons, and is a residual effect of the more fundamental strong force that binds quarks within protons and neutrons. It is a short-range force, effective only within the dimensions of an atomic nucleus, and is responsible for overcoming the electromagnetic repulsion between positively charged protons.

Residual Strong Force

residual strong force

atomic nuclei

Protons and neutrons are the fundamental particles that make up the nucleus of an atom, with protons carrying a positive charge and neutrons being neutral. Together, they determine the atomic mass and the identity of the element, playing a crucial role in the structure and stability of matter.

protons and neutrons

The strong force, also known as the strong nuclear force, is one of the four fundamental forces of nature and is responsible for holding the nuclei of atoms together by binding protons and neutrons. It operates at very short ranges, overcoming the electromagnetic repulsion between positively charged protons to maintain nuclear stability.

strong force

Quarks are elementary particles and fundamental constituents of matter, combining to form protons and neutrons within atomic nuclei. They interact through the strong force, mediated by gluons, and come in six 'flavors': up, down, charm, strange, top, and bottom, each possessing unique properties such as charge and mass.

quarks

short-range force

Electromagnetic repulsion is a fundamental force that occurs when two like-charged particles or objects repel each other due to their electric fields. It is one of the four fundamental forces of nature and plays a critical role in phenomena ranging from atomic interactions to macroscopic systems like magnets and electric circuits.

electromagnetic repulsion

positively charged protons

Binding forces in physics

Fundamental forces are the essential interactions that govern the behavior of particles and the structure of matter in the universe. There are four known fundamental forces: gravitational, electromagnetic, strong nuclear, and weak nuclear, each with distinct characteristics and roles in physical processes.

Fundamental Forces

Nuclear physics is the branch of physics that studies atomic nuclei and their constituents and interactions, focusing on understanding the fundamental forces and particles that govern nuclear reactions and stability. It has significant applications in energy production, medical imaging, and understanding the universe's elemental composition.

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