Calculating Strong Force on a Captured Neutron in a Nuclear Reactor

In summary, the conversation discusses the strong force that must bring a stray neutron to a stop within the diameter of a nucleus in a nuclear reactor. The force, which holds the nucleus together, is nearly zero outside of the nucleus. If a stray neutron is captured by a nucleus with a diameter of 1.3 x 10-14 m, with an initial velocity of 1.7 x 107 m/s, the magnitude of the force can be found using the equation F=ma, where the mass of the neutron is given as 1.67x10-27 kg. The hint provided suggests using the average velocity over a time interval to calculate the force.
  • #1
mcdowellmg
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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 1.7 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



F=ma

[HINT: When the acceleration is constant, the velocity changes from vi to vf during some time interval. The average velocity over that interval is (vi + vf)/2.]


The Attempt at a Solution



I have NO idea where to begin...any pointers?
 
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  • #2
assume the force only acts over the distance of the nucleus
 

Related to Calculating Strong Force on a Captured Neutron in a Nuclear Reactor

1. What is the definition of magnitude of force?

The magnitude of force is the measurement of the amount of force applied to an object. It is represented by a numerical value and a unit of measurement, such as Newtons (N) in the International System of Units (SI).

2. How is the magnitude of force calculated?

The magnitude of force is calculated by multiplying the mass of an object by its acceleration. This is represented by the equation F = ma, where F is the force in Newtons, m is the mass in kilograms, and a is the acceleration in meters per second squared.

3. Can the magnitude of force be negative?

Yes, the magnitude of force can be negative. This indicates that the force is acting in the opposite direction of the positive direction, which is usually designated as the direction of motion or the direction of a force applied by an external source.

4. How does the direction of force affect the magnitude of force?

The direction of force does not affect the magnitude of force. The magnitude of force only takes into account the strength of the force, regardless of its direction. However, the direction of force does affect the resulting motion of an object.

5. What are some common units used to measure the magnitude of force?

In addition to Newtons, other common units used to measure the magnitude of force include pounds (lb), kilograms-force (kgf), and dynes (dyn). It is important to convert between units to ensure accurate calculations and measurements.

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