A nucleus of the stable isotope Pb(208,82) has more neutrons than protons. Explain why there is this imbalance between proton and neutron numbers by referring to the forces that operate within the nucleus.

Must include 3 points from 1-5 and 1 point from 6-7 for 4 marks.1.Strong nuclear force (SNF) affects nucleons or protons and neutrons.2. SNF attraction extends up to 3 fm (allow 1–4 fm) 3. The SNF is repulsive below about 0.8 fm (allow 0.3 to 1 fm and prevents the nucleus totally collapsing) 4. Electromagnetic/electrostatic repulsive force (only) acts between protons 5. EM forces are long range/infinite/acts across whole nucleus/acts on all protons(so increases as proton number increases)6. More neutrons are needed to hold nucleus together / add to binding force/increase instability/reduce stability 7. Fewer protons are required so as to reduce the repulsion/reduce instability/increase stabilityProcess of answering:

Answered by Physics tutor

8058 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

How would you explain general relativity?


How can the average speedx of a gas molecule be derived?


the moon takes 27.3 days (2.36x10^6s) to orbit the earth . Calculate its distance from the earth . Take the mass of the earth to be 5.975x10^24kg.


What is the photoelectric effect and how does it provide evidence for the quantisation of electromagnetic radiation?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning