How is Coulomb repulsion between protons in a nucleus overcome? Explain.
Solution and Explanation
Protons within the nucleus experience Coulomb repulsion due to their positive charges, a phenomenon where like charges repel. Without a counteracting force, this repulsion would destabilize the nucleus. The strong nuclear force overcomes this Coulomb repulsion. This force acts between nucleons (protons and neutrons) and significantly surpasses the Coulomb force at extremely short ranges (approximately 10−15 meters). The strong nuclear force is attractive, effectively binding protons and neutrons together inside the nucleus. Its magnitude at these short distances is sufficient to counteract the repulsive Coulomb force between protons, thereby ensuring nuclear stability. Consequently, nuclei remain stable despite the inherent Coulomb repulsion between their protons.
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