Why Electrons Don't Stick to Nuclei

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the question of why electrons do not stick to atomic nuclei, exploring concepts related to atomic structure, electron behavior, and nuclear stability. Participants touch on theoretical and conceptual aspects of atomic orbitals and electron capture.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions why electrons do not stick to nuclei.
  • Another participant mentions that electrons can sometimes be captured by the nucleus, referencing "K-capture" as an example.
  • A different participant explains that electrons occupy discrete orbitals around the nucleus, with a non-zero probability of being found at the nucleus, but they do not "stick" due to stability considerations of the nucleus.
  • This participant argues that if capturing an electron would destabilize the nucleus (by converting a proton into a neutron), then the electron remains in its orbital instead.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the behavior of electrons in relation to nuclei, with some acknowledging the possibility of electron capture while others emphasize the stability of the nucleus as a reason for electrons not sticking.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve the complexities surrounding electron behavior and nuclear stability, leaving open questions about the conditions under which electron capture might occur.

karawan
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why the electron does not stick to the nuclei?
 
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Sometimes it does. Look up "K-capture" on Wikipedia.
 
The electrons occupy "orbitals" around the nucleus of an atom. These orbitals can only be in certain discrete values. The probability of an electron occupying a spot in the nucleus is NOT zero, it is an actual finite number, however the electron doesn't "stick" to the nucleus. The electron isn't pulled into the nucleus because that would involve electron capture and turn a proton into an neutron. If it is more favorable for the nucleus to remain like it is (AKA the nucleus is stable) then there is no reason for the electron to be captured and it remains in its orbital. Turning the proton into a neutron would form an unstable nucleus and probably result in beta decay (the opposite of electron capture) right back to where the situation was originally.

See here for more info: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atomic_orbital
 
i was looking for the answer to this question when stumbled upon your post... thanks for explanation...
 

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