1. Strong Nuclear Force and Radioactive Decay
Class notes

2. What holds the nucleus together?
Strong nuclear force (SNF)
Attractive force between p-p, n-n, & p-n
Only works over very, very short distances

3. What causes atoms to decay?
Alpha decay: the nucleus becomes too big.
SNF weakens and the electrical repulsion between protons overtakes it.
Kicks out an alpha particle (2p + 2n)
Beta decay: too many neutrons.
A neutron transforms into a proton, and kicks an electron (beta particle) out of the nucleus

4. Comprehension Questions
How are the strong nuclear force and the electric force different from each other?
The strong nuclear force is an attractive force, and the electric force is a repulsive force. SNF is effective over very short distances, and the EF is effective over longer distances.

5. Comprehension Questions
What role do neutrons play in the atomic nucleus?
The neutrons act like a glue in the nucleus. They help hold it together.