0
You visited us 0 times! Enjoying our articles? Unlock Full Access!
Question

Why is a $$_{ 2 }^{ 4 }{ He }$$ nucleus more stable than a $$_{ 3 }^{ 4 }{ Li }$$ nucleus?

A
The strong nuclear force is larger when the neutron to proton ratio is higher
B
The laws of nuclear physics forbid a nucleus from containing more protons than neutrons
C
None of the above
D
Forces other than the strong nuclear force make the lithium nucleus less stable
Solution
Verified by Toppr

Correct option is C. Forces other than the strong nuclear force make the lithium nucleus less stable
All neutrons attract each other with the same strong nuclear force. So, the strong nuclear force holds together three protons and one neutron $$\left( _{ 3 }^{ 4 }{ Li } \right) $$ just as vigorously as it holds together two protons and two neutrons $$\left( _{ 2 }^{ 4 }{ He } \right) $$. Specifically, protons repel other protons due to the positive charge over them. This repulsion tries to make a nucleus fly apart. Since $$\left( _{ 2 }^{ 4 }{ He } \right) $$ contains only two protons, the attractive strong nuclear forces overcome the repulsion of the protons. Hence, the nucleus holds together. But in $$\left( _{ 3 }^{ 4 }{ Li } \right) $$, the mutual repulsion of the three protons overcomes the strong nuclear attractions and the nucleus falls apart (or undergoes radioactive decay into a more stable nucleus). Therefore, the answer will be (c)

Was this answer helpful?
0
Similar Questions
Q1
Why is a 42He nucleus more stable than a 43Li nucleus?
View Solution
Q2
Why is a 42He nucleus more stable than a 43Li nucleus?
View Solution
Q3
Why is lithium nucleus less stable than helium nucleus. What accounts for its lower B.E. per nucleon?
View Solution
Q4

Why is Iron 56 considered the most stable nucleus?


View Solution
Q5
A nucleus of stable phosphorus has 15 protons and 16 neutrons. The nucleus of radio phosphorus has one neutron more than the stable nucleus. What will be its atomic number and mass number ?
View Solution