Proton & Electron: Why Don't They Collapse?

In summary, the reason why electrons do not collapse into the proton center of an atom is because in the lowest bound state of an electron in hydrogen, orbital angular momentum (centrifugal force) is not a concern. Additionally, there is a very small but non-zero probability of the electron and proton wave functions overlapping, but it is energetically impossible for the proton to absorb the electron and become a neutron. However, in certain atoms like beryllium-7, a proton can absorb an orbital electron through a process called electron capture, resulting in a different element with a shorter half-life.
  • #1
menniandscience
99
2
why the electrons don't collapase into the proton-center of the atom? is it centrifugal force?
thanks
 
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  • #3
In the lowest bound state of an electron in hydrogen (proton), orbital angular momentum (centrifugal force) is not a concern. There is a very very small but non-zero probability that the wave function of the electron and the proton do overlap. But it is energetically impossible for the proton to absorb the electron, because the final state would be a neutron, which is about 1.3 MeV heavier than the proton.

But in beryllium-7 (4 protons plus 3 neutrons), a proton in the nucleus can absorb an orbital electron and the atom becomes lithium-7 (3 protons plus 4 neutrons), because it is energetically possible. This is a form of beta decay called electron capture. Its half life is about 53 days. See
http://www.britannica.com/nobelprize/article-48278
 
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1. What is the structure of a proton and electron?

The proton and electron are two fundamental particles that make up the structure of an atom. The proton is positively charged and located in the nucleus of an atom, while the electron is negatively charged and orbits around the nucleus.

2. Why don't protons and electrons collapse into each other?

Protons and electrons are held together by the strong electromagnetic force. This force is stronger than the repulsive force between two positively charged particles, preventing the collapse of the atom.

3. How does the mass of a proton and electron compare?

The mass of a proton is approximately 2,000 times greater than the mass of an electron. This difference in mass is due to the presence of two additional subatomic particles, called quarks, within the structure of a proton.

4. Can protons and electrons be separated from each other?

Yes, protons and electrons can be separated from each other through various methods such as ionization or nuclear reactions. However, they will always remain attracted to each other due to their opposite charges.

5. How do protons and electrons contribute to the stability of an atom?

Protons and electrons work together to create a stable atom. The protons in the nucleus provide the positive charge that attracts the negatively charged electrons, causing them to orbit the nucleus. This balance of forces keeps the atom stable and prevents it from collapsing.

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