Introduction: The nucleus is the central part of an atom. It is composed of protons and neutrons, which are held together by the strong nuclear force.
The strong nuclear force is responsible for holding the protons and neutrons together in the nucleus. This force is one of the fundamental forces of nature and is incredibly powerful over short distances.
Nuclei with too many or too few neutrons compared to protons can be unstable. Unstable nuclei undergo radioactive decay in order to become more stable.