Why Do Protons Not Repel Each Other in an Atomic Nucleus?

💡 The Answer

• The strong nuclear force binds protons and neutrons together even though protons repel electromagnetically.
• This force is about 100 times stronger than electromagnetism but acts only over extremely short distances.
• Without the strong force, nuclei would instantly fly apart due to electrostatic repulsion.
• Neutrons contribute to nuclear stability by adding strong force without increasing repulsion.