Finding Magnitude of Force of a Nucleus

In summary, the conversation discusses the capture of a stray neutron by a nucleus, and the necessary force to bring the neutron to a stop within the nucleus diameter. The strong force, responsible for holding the nucleus together, is approximately zero outside of the nucleus. Using the given information, a calculation is done to find the magnitude of the force, resulting in an incorrect answer due to mathematical errors.
  • #1
AnkhUNC
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0

Homework Statement


A nucleus that captures a stray neutron [in a nuclear reactor, for example] must bring the neutron to a stop within the diameter of the nucleus by means of the strong force.That force, which "glues" the nucleus together, is approximately zero outside the nucleus. Suppose that a stray neutron with an initial speed of 1.3 x 107 m/s is just barely captured by a nucleus with a diameter of 1.3 x 10-14 m. Assuming the strong force on the neutron is constant, find the magnitude of that force. (The neutron's mass is 1.67x10-27 kg.)


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



So I do the following:

v^2 = v0^2-2ad -> 0^2 = 1.3*10^7 - 2a(1.3*10^-14)
a = -1.3*10^7/(2(1.3*10^-14)) = 2.20385 so * mass = 2.010423077E-5

But this is incorrect?
 
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  • #2
Hi AnkhUNC,

It looks to me like you made some math errors in the last line of your work. It looks like you might not have squared the velocity, and maybe more after that.
 
  • #3
Yeah I did I worked it out thanks
 

1. What is the definition of magnitude of force of a nucleus?

The magnitude of force of a nucleus is a measure of the amount of energy required to keep the nucleus of an atom together and is directly related to the strength of the nuclear force.

2. How is the magnitude of force of a nucleus calculated?

The magnitude of force of a nucleus is calculated using the equation F = G * (m1 * m2) / r^2, where G is the gravitational constant, m1 and m2 are the masses of the interacting particles, and r is the distance between them.

3. How does the magnitude of force of a nucleus affect the stability of an atom?

The magnitude of force of a nucleus plays a crucial role in determining the stability of an atom. If the magnitude of force of a nucleus is too weak, the nucleus may not be able to hold together and the atom will be unstable. On the other hand, if the magnitude of force is too strong, the nucleus may undergo radioactive decay, also resulting in an unstable atom.

4. What factors can influence the magnitude of force of a nucleus?

The main factors that influence the magnitude of force of a nucleus are the number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus, the distance between them, and the type of nuclear forces present. The strength of the nuclear force also depends on the properties of the particles involved, such as their spin and charge.

5. Why is it important to understand the magnitude of force of a nucleus?

Understanding the magnitude of force of a nucleus is crucial for various aspects of nuclear physics, including nuclear energy and nuclear reactions. It also helps us to better understand the structure and behavior of atoms and the universe as a whole.

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