Why Don't Electrons Stick to the Nucleus Despite Opposite Charges?

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SUMMARY

Electrons do not stick to the nucleus of an atom despite opposite charges due to the presence of quantum mechanics principles, specifically electron shells and the uncertainty principle. Electrons occupy specific energy levels or shells around the nucleus, which prevents them from collapsing into it. The energy required for electrons to maintain their orbits comes from their kinetic energy, which is sustained by the laws of quantum physics. This discussion highlights the fundamental concepts of atomic structure and electron behavior.

PREREQUISITES
  • Quantum mechanics fundamentals
  • Atomic structure and electron configuration
  • Understanding of electron shells
  • Basic principles of electromagnetic forces
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of quantum mechanics and the uncertainty principle
  • Explore atomic models, particularly the Bohr model and quantum mechanical model
  • Learn about electron shell theory and energy levels
  • Investigate electromagnetic forces and their role in atomic interactions
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators teaching atomic theory, and anyone interested in the fundamental principles of atomic structure and electron behavior.

nathaniell
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Hey people,

I have beeno wondering this for a while:

If the nucleus of an atom is positively charged and the electrons are negatively charged, why don't the electrons stick to the nucleus like a magnet, why do they only have a certain distance between themselves.

If the electrons are constantly rotating around the nucleus, this means that a change in direction would cause an accelartion of the electrons. For something to accelerate it needs energy or a force. Where does this energy comes from and why it is not extinguised over the time
:rolleyes:
 
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nathaniell said:
Hey people,

I have beeno wondering this for a while:

If the nucleus of an atom is positively charged and the electrons are negatively charged, why don't the electrons stick to the nucleus like a magnet, why do they only have a certain distance between themselves.

If the electrons are constantly rotating around the nucleus, this means that a change in direction would cause an accelartion of the electrons. For something to accelerate it needs energy or a force. Where does this energy comes from and why it is not extinguised over the time
:rolleyes:

I guess the reason that (negative) electrons will not stick to the (positive) nucleus is because between the nucleus and the electrons, there actually exists a strong 'force' that prevents the electrons from sticking to the nucleus. Another reason will be that elecrons orbit around the nucleus in electron shells. So, there is no way that the electrons will stick on the nucleus.
 

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