Understanding the Strong Force: Protons and Neutrons in Collision

In summary, the strong nuclear force can bind a free-floating proton and neutron together when they collide, forming deuterium. This is because both particles carry a strong charge, similar to how electrons carry an electric charge. However, the strong force is very short range, so the particles must be brought very close together for it to take effect. Protons and neutrons can bond with each other, but not with particles of the same type, due to the interaction of the strong force with the electric force.
  • #1
ranrod
32
1
I apologize for the very simple question, but I find often the simplest questions are the ones not answered in books.

If a free-floating proton collides with a free-floating neutron, do they get bound together by the strong nuclear force? Let's say it's a low-energy collision - both particles are gently meandering the cosmos when they meet. Does the strong force bind them together as soon as they touch forming deuterium? I was wondering if all simple particles like neutrons and proton carry the strong force within them. If the 2 particles meeting does not create a bond, how do they normally bond?
 
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  • #2
Yes, all protons and neutrons have a strong "charge" in the same way that electrons have an electric charge. The strong force is very short range, so you have to bring them very close together so they nearly touch before they stick.

A p and an n are easy, and can indeed drift together like that. Two p's won't since the electric force acts at a long distance and will push them apart. It's like two opposite magnets that are very strong but covered with velcro: you have to get them together and only then will they stick.

Just don't ask why two p's or two n's don't stick together (I did, and got referred to textbooks but no simple answer). The strong force is more complicated than the electric force.

--John
 

1. What is the simple strong force?

The simple strong force, also known as the strong nuclear force, is one of the four fundamental forces of nature. It is responsible for holding together the nucleus of an atom by overcoming the repulsive forces between positively charged protons.

2. How does the simple strong force differ from the other fundamental forces?

The simple strong force is the strongest force among the four fundamental forces. It is about 100 times stronger than the electromagnetic force and about 10,000 times stronger than the weak nuclear force. It also has a very short range, only acting within the nucleus of an atom.

3. What particles are involved in the simple strong force?

The simple strong force involves the interaction between quarks, which are the building blocks of protons and neutrons, and gluons, which are the carriers of the strong force. These particles are constantly exchanging gluons, creating a strong bond that holds the nucleus together.

4. How does the simple strong force contribute to the stability of atoms?

The simple strong force is responsible for binding the protons and neutrons in the nucleus together, overcoming the repulsive forces between positively charged protons. Without this force, the nucleus would not be stable and would break apart, leading to the instability of atoms.

5. What are the implications of understanding the simple strong force?

Understanding the simple strong force is crucial in explaining the behavior and properties of matter at a microscopic level. It also has many practical applications, such as in nuclear energy and medical imaging. Further research and understanding of this force may also lead to advancements in technology and our understanding of the universe.

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