Distribution of protons inside a large nucleus

In summary, the atomic nucleus is not uniformly distributed, as the coulomb repulsion between protons causes them to push away from the center. It is not clear what the charge density inside the nucleus should look like, but it is likely to increase away from the center. The nucleus is not accurately described by classical electromagnetism, but rather by Quantum Theory.
  • #1
Kostik
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TL;DR Summary
Does coulomb repulsion result in an increasing charge density ρ(r) inside medium and large nuclei?
For medium to large nuclei, common sense suggests that protons should not be uniformly distributed inside the nucleus. Assuming the protons inside the nucleus are mobile (but supposing that it doesn't make sense to consider the nucleus a "conductor", in which case all charge would reside on the outer surface), the coulomb repulsion between protons should push them away from the center of the nucleus to some degree. It's not clear what the actual charge density ρ(r) should look like, but I suspect it should increase away from the center.

DOES THE nucleus, in fact, have a "neutron-rich" core and a "proton-rich" outer shell? Are protons relatively mobile within the nucleus?
 
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  • #2
Kostik said:
Summary:: Does coulomb repulsion result in an increasing charge density ρ(r) inside medium and large nuclei?

For medium to large nuclei, common sense suggests that protons should not be uniformly distributed inside the nucleus. Assuming the protons inside the nucleus are mobile (but supposing that it doesn't make sense to consider the nucleus a "conductor", in which case all charge would reside on the outer surface), the coulomb repulsion between protons should push them away from the center of the nucleus to some degree. It's not clear what the actual charge density ρ(r) should look like, but I suspect it should increase away from the center.

DOES THE nucleus, in fact, have a "neutron-rich" core and a "proton-rich" outer shell? Are protons relatively mobile within the nucleus?
You cannot model the atomic nucleus using the concepts of classical electromagnetism. The nucleus is governed by Quantum Theory: in particular QCD and QED. See here for example:

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/Nuclear/shell.html
 

1. What is the distribution of protons inside a large nucleus?

The distribution of protons inside a large nucleus is not uniform. It follows a density distribution, also known as the nuclear density profile, which is dependent on the size and shape of the nucleus. This distribution is higher at the center of the nucleus and decreases towards the edges.

2. How is the distribution of protons inside a large nucleus determined?

The distribution of protons inside a large nucleus is determined through experiments, such as electron scattering and nuclear reactions. These experiments provide data on the nuclear density profile, which can then be used to study the distribution of protons inside the nucleus.

3. Does the distribution of protons inside a large nucleus vary for different elements?

Yes, the distribution of protons inside a large nucleus varies for different elements. This is because the number of protons in the nucleus, also known as the atomic number, determines the size and shape of the nucleus, which in turn affects the nuclear density profile.

4. What is the significance of studying the distribution of protons inside a large nucleus?

Studying the distribution of protons inside a large nucleus is important for understanding the structure of atoms and the behavior of nuclear matter. It also helps in developing models and theories to explain the properties and interactions of atomic nuclei.

5. Can the distribution of protons inside a large nucleus change?

Yes, the distribution of protons inside a large nucleus can change under certain conditions, such as high temperatures and pressures. This can lead to nuclear reactions and the formation of new elements, altering the distribution of protons inside the nucleus.

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