IB Physics HL E.3.14 Evidence for strong force Question Bank

Practise IB Physics HL E.3.14 by applying evidence for strong force concepts to exam-style physics questions.

Exam points

identify the relevant physical quantity, model or diagram
apply the correct equation and units to the evidence
justify the result using conservation laws, fields or energy relationships

[Maximum number: 2]

A short-range attractive force operates between nucleons.

State and explain one piece of evidence that suggests the presence of this force.

ALTERNATIVE 1

Protons repel each other so no nuclei could form

Unless an attractive force exists to overcome this repulsion

ALTERNATIVE 2

Deviation from Rutherford scattering / drop off of scattering at high energies $(\geq 28 \mathrm{MeV})$

This is due to strong nuclear force acting on alpha particle

ALTERNATIVE 3

The binding energy per nucleon is mostly constant above a certain point (A~60)

this is the consequence of an attractive <<short range>> force

ALTERNATIVE 4

Most nuclei have large binding energies

Indicating that a strong force keeps nucleons together

MP1 is required to award MP2

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E.3.14 (HL)—Evidence for strong force question 1