Atomic Structure: Why Don't Protons Repel Each Other?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the question of why protons, which are positively charged and would typically repel each other due to electromagnetic forces, remain clustered in the nucleus of an atom. It explores the forces at play within the nucleus, including the strong force and electromagnetic interactions, as well as the role of electrons.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants note that protons repel each other electromagnetically, raising the question of what prevents them from separating in the nucleus.
  • Others explain that the strong force counteracts this repulsion, being significantly more powerful than the electromagnetic force.
  • One participant asks for clarification on the two forces at work in the nucleus and their relative strengths, as well as what else is present in the nucleus and its effects.
  • There is a suggestion that participants should engage in research before seeking full answers, indicating a preference for exploratory discussion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that protons repel each other and that the strong force plays a crucial role in keeping them together, but the discussion remains open regarding the details and implications of these forces.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve the specifics of the forces involved or their interactions, and there are references to external resources that may provide additional context.

watts up?
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If like charges repel each other, what keeps the protons clustered in the nucleus of the atom from separating ? and why wouldn't the electrons with a negative charge pull them out from the nucleus ?
 
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watts up? said:
If like charges repel each other, what keeps the protons clustered in the nucleus of the atom from separating ?

There are 2 forces at work in the nucleus, one of them is stronger than the other ... can you name them and which is stronger ?
what else is in the nucleus besides the Proton(s), and how does that affect things ?

Dave
 
ProfuselyQuarky said:
Protons actually do repel electromagnetically. However, this is "evened out" with a strong force, which is said to be over a hundred times more powerful than the electromagnetic force.

http://aether.lbl.gov/elements/stellar/strong/strong.html
Was hoping the Op would make an effort to research that
please don't be so quick with full answers :smile:
 
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davenn said:
Was hoping the Op would make an effort to research that
please don't be so quick with full answers :smile:
Sorry for that, Dave ... I can no longer delete the post, either :sorry:

I think my teachers get a bit irritated with that, too, sometimes :smile:
 
ProfuselyQuarky said:
Sorry for that, Dave ... I can no longer delete the post, either :sorry:

I think my teachers get a bit irritated with that, too, sometimes :smile:

no probs, just keep it in mind :smile: Dave
 
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