View a FREE sample

1. Describe the structure of an atom.

An atom is composed of a cloud of electrons that orbit a small, dense nucleus. The nucleus is composed of protons and neutrons.

2. List the four fundamental forces of the universe, their functions, and describe where and at what scales they are most commonly observed.

The four fundamental force of the universe are gravity, the electromagnetic force, the nuclear-strong force, and the nuclear-weak force. Gravity causes all particles that have mass to be attracted to all other particles that have mass; it is seen on very large scales, holding together stars, solar systems, and galaxies. The electromagnetic force governs the propagation of light, and the movement and interactions of electrical and magnetic fields; it causes negatively-charged particles (electrons) to be attracted to positively-charged particles (protons), and for particles with the same charge to repel each other. The electromagnetic force is seen at all scales, and can be directly observed through lightning, light-rays, and magnetic attraction. The strong force acts to bind particles together and only acts on very small scales. Its effects can be observed in the nucleus of an atom, holding the protons, which all repel each other, together. The weak force causes particles to decay; it acts over extremely short distances. Its effects can be seen in radioactive materials, which decay and give off dangerous radiation.

(read all 60 Short Essay Questions and Answers)

This section contains 3,793 words (approx. 13 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample