Answer the following questions about the four fundamental forces.
PHYSICS · Multi-part · A Level · Physics · Particles and radiation · Particles and radiation
Problem
Answer the following questions about the four fundamental forces.
(a) Complete the table showing some properties of the four fundamental forces.
Name of force
Acts on
Range
Boson responsible
Electromagnetic
Gravitational
Weak force
Strong nuclear force
(b) Which of the four fundamental forces is responsible for:
i. β− decay?
ii. A black hole not emitting any light?
iii. The movement of a speaker cone?
iv. Two protons existing in a helium nucleus?
(c) By considering the different forces that act on nucleons, explain how it is possible for most nuclei to hold their nucleons within the nucleus.
(d) With reference to the forces acting in a nucleus, suggest a reason why some nuclei are able to decay by alpha decay.
(e) In the early 1900s, Lord Rutherford observed alpha particles being deflected by the nuclei of gold atoms.
i. At low energies, the alpha particles were repelled by the gold nuclei. Use your knowledge of the four fundamental forces to explain why this occurs.
ii. If the energy of the alpha particles had been substantially higher, they may have been absorbed by the gold nuclei. Use your knowledge of the fundamental forces to explain why this can happen.