Question

Why does the strong nuclear force play no role in the formation of molecules?

A.) A given nucleus would attract the nucleus of another, nearby atom if it weren't for the equally strong repulsive force it exerts on the electrons of the other atoms.

B.) It acts only on distances that are a lot shorter than the distance between two atomic nuclei.

C.) The strong force is repulsive over distances that are larger than a few atomic radii.

D.)Its attractive effect on the neutrons of the other nucleus is cancelled out by the repulsion of the protons of that nucleus.

Answer 1

Option B is correct.

It acts only on distances that are A lot shorter than the distance between two atomic nuclei.

Note :-nuclear force is short range force.

Answer 2

Answer:

The correct explanation is:
B.) It acts only on distances that are a lot shorter than the distance between two atomic nuclei.

Why?

1. Range of the Strong Nuclear Force:

• The strong force binds protons and neutrons within a nucleus (range: ~1 femtometer = $10^{-15}$ m).

• Intermolecular distances are ~1000x larger (nanometers), where the strong force is negligible.

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2. Why Other Options Are Incorrect:

• A.) Incorrect because the strong force does not interact with electrons.

• C.) The strong force is not repulsive at any distance; it’s attractive at short ranges.

• D.) The strong force affects all nucleons (protons/neutrons), but its range is too short for intermolecular effects.

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Key Concept:

Molecules form due to electromagnetic forces (e.g., covalent bonds, ionic attractions), not n