The range of ______ force is of the order of 10 −16 m .
weak nuclear
The correct option is Option 4: weak nuclear.
Explanation
In physics, there are four fundamental forces of nature, each characterized by its own relative strength and operational range. The force that operates specifically at the subatomic scale on the order of $10^{-16}\text{ m}$ to $10^{-18}\text{ m}$ is the weak nuclear force (or weak interaction).
Why the range is so short: The weak nuclear force is mediated by massive gauge bosons—specifically the $W^+$, $W^-$, and $Z^0$ bosons. Because these carrier particles are highly massive, quantum mechanics dictates that they can only exist transiently and travel an incredibly minute distance before being reabsorbed, limiting the force's reach to a fraction of a proton's diameter.
Primary Role: The weak nuclear force is responsible for radioactive decay, such as beta decay ($\beta$-decay), where a neutron turns into a proton by emitting an electron and an antineutrino. This process is fundamental to the nuclear fusion reactions that power the Sun.
Comparison of the Fundamental Forces
To help you keep the scales and ranges of all four fundamental forces perfectly organized for your studies, here is a quick-reference summary table:
| Fundamental Force | Carrier Particle (Boson) | Relative Strength | Range (Meters) | Primary Function / Example |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Strong Nuclear | Gluons | $1$ | Short ($\sim 10^{-15}\text{ m}$) | Binds quarks into protons/neutrons; holds the nucleus together. |
| Electromagnetic | Photons | $10^{-2}$ | Infinite ($1/r^2$ decay) | Governs atomic structure, chemical bonds, friction, and light. |
| Weak Nuclear | W and Z Bosons | $10^{-13}$ | Short ($\sim 10^{-16}\text{ to } 10^{-18}\text{ m}$) | Responsible for radioactive particle decay ($\beta$-decay). |
| Gravitational | Graviton (hypothetical) | $10^{-39}$ | Infinite ($1/r^2$ decay) | Governs large-scale cosmic structures, orbits, and tides. |
Important Questions from Forces
Force of attraction between molecules of the same substance is called_____.
All the non-zero vectors are called ______.
Which of the following is a characteristic of conservative force?
What force acts in a rollercoaster ride?
A. Centrifugal
B. Centripetal
C. Gravitational
D. Normal
Which of the following never occurs singly in nature?
