Which is an example of the electromagnetic force?

In summary, this conversation is about a question on an online homework for a modern physics class regarding the identification of the electromagnetic force in various scenarios. The options given are (a) quarks attracted to one another within a proton, (b) a stable nucleus of 4 protons and 5 neutrons, (c) collapse of a star into a black hole, (d) beta decay of 139Ba, and (e) a rubber band stretching but not breaking. The correct answer is (e) as all day-to-day materials are held together by electromagnetic forces. It is also mentioned that other forces may be involved in these situations, but the most important one is the one listed for each option.
  • #1
mattst88
29
0
This was a question on an online homework for a modern physics class. I had two chances to answer it, but I was wrong both times, so I'm simply curious what the answer is.

Homework Statement



Which of the following statements shows the electromagnetic force at work?

(a) Quarks attracted to one another within a proton
(b) A stable nucleus of 4 protons and 5 neutrons
(c) Collapse of a star into a black hole
(d) Beta decay of 139Ba
(e) A rubber band stretching but not breaking

The Attempt at a Solution



(a) Quarks attracted to one another is the strong force
(b) A stable nucleus of 4 protons (Beryllium) and 5 neutrons is the strong force
(c) Collapse of a star into a black hole is gravitational force
(d) Beta decay of 139 Ba is the weak force
(e) A rubber band stretching but not breaking... must the the electromagnetic force?

I answered (d) and then (b). Is it really the rubber band?
 
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  • #2
'e' is the correct answer. while 'b' and 'd' are both nuclear forces. I'm not sure what might be tripping you up, but one thing to consider is that in most of these situations, numerous forces are at play---but the most important one is the one listed.

Another thing to keep in mind is that all day-to-day materials (rubber bands, rocks, water, etc) are all held together by electromagnetic forces. Electromagnetic forces are the only ones involved in standard chemistry and chemical compounds.
 

1. What is the electromagnetic force?

The electromagnetic force is one of the four fundamental forces of nature, responsible for the interactions between electrically charged particles. It is a force of attraction or repulsion between particles with opposite or like charges, respectively.

2. How does the electromagnetic force work?

The electromagnetic force is carried by particles called photons, which are the carriers of electromagnetic radiation. When two charged particles interact, they exchange photons, which creates a force between them based on their charges and distance.

3. What are some examples of the electromagnetic force in everyday life?

The electromagnetic force is responsible for a wide range of phenomena we encounter in our daily lives, such as the attraction or repulsion of magnets, the functioning of electronic devices, and the behavior of light and other forms of electromagnetic radiation.

4. Can the electromagnetic force be observed?

While we cannot directly see the electromagnetic force, we can observe its effects through experiments and measurements. We can also visualize the electromagnetic field through tools such as magnetic field lines and electric field lines.

5. How does the electromagnetic force compare to other fundamental forces?

The electromagnetic force is one of the strongest forces in nature, second only to the strong nuclear force. It is also much stronger than the weak nuclear force and gravity. However, its strength varies depending on the distance and charges of the interacting particles.

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