The strong force is one of the four fundamental forces of nature, responsible for holding the nuclei of atoms together. It acts between protons and neutrons, which are collectively known as nucleons. This force is incredibly powerful but operates over a very short range, typically less than the diameter of an atomic nucleus. The strong force is mediated by particles called gluons, which are exchanged between quarks, the building blocks of protons and neutrons. Without the strong force, atomic nuclei would not be stable, and matter as we know it would not exist. This force is essential for the formation of elements in stars and the universe.