Force that keeps sub atomic particles of an atom together

[WhiteRhasta]

I am in sorts about Radioactivity, I would like to know what other force keeps sub atomic particles of an atom from coming apart? I realize that gravitational pull is not what holds the particles together, but is there a more dominant force that does so? Does that also further break apart in a nucleus?

 

[mathman]

There are two nuclear forces. The strong force is responsible for holding the nucleons together to form a nucleus. The weak force is the mediator for certain radioactive decay processes - those involving electrons or positrons.

 

[WhiteRhasta]

Thanks mathman, much respect. That cleared things up for me.