Question

The shortest range of the fundamental force is associated with

A. Strong nuclear force

B. Gravitational force

C. Electromagnetic force

D. Weak nuclear force

Answer 1

Hint: To answer this question we have to know the details about the different kinds of fundamental forces and know the explanation of each of the mentioned options. Once we know the definition and the range of each of the mentioned options, we will be able to answer the required question. The four fundamental forces are strong nuclear force, gravity, electromagnetic force and weak nuclear force. 

Complete step by step answer:

We should know that the strong nuclear force has the shortest range among all the four fundamental forces. The range of the strong nuclear force is 10 times shorter in order of magnitude. However, strength wise the strongest force is the strong nuclear force. It is almost 100 times stronger than the electromagnetic force which is termed as the second strongest.

The strong nuclear force will come into operation only within the nucleus of an atom therefore it is not experienced on a direct basis by us every day. To be specific the range of the strong nuclear force is $10^{-15}\,m$ and the range of weak nuclear force is about $10^{-18}\,m$. Therefore, the weak nuclear forces are the most shortest range of force.

Thus, the correct answer is option (D).

Note: We should know that by strong nuclear force we mean the force that occurs on the interaction between subatomic particles of the matter. This strong force binds together in the form of clusters to make more similar subatomic particles, which are protons and neutrons. The difference between the weak and the strong nuclear forces is that the strong nuclear forces hold the nucleus together and the weak nuclear forces are the ones which cause radioactive decay of specific nuclei.