Question

what force holds the nucleus together?
a the force of attraction between positive and negative particles.
b the force of attraction between the nucleus and electrons.
c the strong nuclear force between protons and neutrons.
d the weak atomic force between neutrons and electrons.

Explanation:

The nucleus contains protons (positively - charged) and neutrons (neutral). Protons would repel each other due to their like - charges. The strong nuclear force is a short - range force that overcomes the electrostatic repulsion between protons and also acts on neutrons, holding the nucleus together. Option a refers to electromagnetic force between positive and negative particles which is not relevant for holding the nucleus. Option b is the electromagnetic force between the nucleus and electrons which keeps electrons in orbit around the nucleus, not holding the nucleus itself together. Option d, the weak atomic force is involved in processes like beta - decay and not in holding the nucleus together.

Answer:

C. The strong nuclear force between protons and neutrons