In Rutherford’s famous scattering experiments (which led to the planetary model

Question

In Rutherford’s famous scattering experiments (which led to the planetary model of the atom), alpha particles (having charges of +2 e and masses of 6.64×10?27 kg) were fired toward a gold nucleus with charge +79 e. An alpha particle, initially very far from the gold nucleus, is fired at 1.49 × 107 m/s directly toward the gold nucleus.

How close does the alpha particle get to the gold nucleus before turning around?

Assume the gold nucleus remains stationary. The fundamental charge is 1.602 × 10?19 C and the Coulomb constant is 8.98755 × 109 N · m2 /C 2 . Answer in units of m.

Explanation / Answer

at point where gold particle turn around where

KE = U

1/2 * m *v^2 = kq1q2/r

here r is the closet approach

r = kq1q2/mv^2

r = 8.98755x10^9 * 2 * 79 * (1.6 x 10^-19)^2 / (6.64 x 10^-27 x (1.49x 10^7)^2

r = 2.466 x 10^-14 m = 2.47 x 10^-14 m

Related Questions

Navigate

• Browse (All)
• Browse I
• Subjects

Integrity-first tutoring: explanations and feedback only — we do not complete graded work. Learn more.