Protons and neutrons are both types of nucleons, which means they are found in the nucleus of an atom. Here are some accurate statements regarding these two sub-atomic particles:
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Charge: Protons carry a positive electrical charge (+1), while neutrons are electrically neutral (0 charge).
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Mass: Protons and neutrons have similar masses, but protons are slightly lighter than neutrons. In atomic mass units (amu), a proton has a mass of approximately 1.007 amu, and a neutron has a mass of approximately 1.009 amu.
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Role in the Nucleus: Both protons and neutrons contribute to the overall mass of the atom and are responsible for the stability of the atomic nucleus. Protons determine the atomic number and thus the identity of the element, while neutrons contribute to the atomic mass and can influence the stability of the nucleus.
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Strong Nuclear Force: Both protons and neutrons are held together in the nucleus by the strong nuclear force, which is one of the four fundamental forces of nature.
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