For large mass number nuclei which are stable, the ratio of protons to neutrons is
A) equal to 1
B) greater than 1
C) less than 1
D) unrelated to the stability of nuclei
E) almost 2 to 1

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

For large mass number nuclei which are stable, the ratio of protons to neutrons is typically less than 1. This is because as the number of protons increases, the electrostatic repulsion between protons increases, making it more difficult to hold the nucleus together. Therefore, a larger number of neutrons is needed to provide the strong nuclear force necessary to overcome the electrostatic repulsion and hold the nucleus together. This is known as the neutron-to-proton ratio and is a key factor in determining the stability of nuclei.

For Large Mass Number Nuclei Which Are Stable, the Ratio