How Did Our Universe Get Here?-The Controversy -The Two Nuclear Forces

The structure of the universe involves much more than fine-tuning just gravity and the  electromagnetic force.  Two other physical forces also relates to our life.

These two forces operate in the nucleus of an atom, and they give ample evidence of forethought. Consider the strong nuclear force, which glues protons and neutrons together in the nucleus of the atom. Because of this bonding, various elements can form-light ones (such as helium and oxygen) and heavy one (such as gold and lead). It seems that if this binding force were a mere 2-percent weaker, only hydrogen would exist. Conversely, if this force were slightly stronger, only heavier elements, but no hydrogen would be found. Would out lives be affected?  Well, if the universe lacked hydrogen, our sun would not have the fuel it needs to radiate life-giving energy.  And, of course, we would have no water or food, since hydrogen is an essential ingredient of both.  

The fourth force in this discussion, called the weak nuclear force, controls radioactive decay.  It also affects thermonuclear activity in our sun.  'Is this force find-tuned?' you might ask. Mathematician and physicist Freeman Dyson explains:  "The weak [force] is millions of times weaker than the nuclear force. It is just weak enough so that the hydrogen in the sun burns at a slow and steady rate. If the weak [force] were much stronger or much weaker, any forms of life dependent on sunlike stars would again be in difficulties."  Yes, this precise rate of burning keeps our earth warm-but not incinerated-and keeps us alive. 

Furthermore, scientist believe that the weak force plays a role in supernova explosions, which they give as the mechanism for producing and distributing most elements.  "If those nuclear forces were in any way slightly different from the way they actually are, the stars would be incapable of making the elements of which you and I are composed," explains physicist John Polkinghorne. 

More could be said, but you likely understand the point.  There is an amazing degree of fine-tuning in these four fundamental forces. "All around us, we seem to see evidence that nature got it right," wrote Professor Paul Davies.  Yes, the precise tuning of the fundamental forces has made possible the existence  and operation of our sun, our delightful planet, with its life-sustaining water, our atmosphere so vital for life, and a vast array of precious chemical elements on earth. But ask yourself, 'Why such precise tuning, and from where?  

Next time: How Did Our Universe Get Here?-Earth's Ideal Features

From the book Is There a Creator That Cares About You?