In Rutherford\'s famous scattering experiments that led to the planetary model o

Question

In Rutherford's famous scattering experiments that led to the planetary model of the atom, alpha particles (having charges of +2e and masses of 6.64 × 1027 kg) were fired toward a gold nucleus with charge +79e. An alpha particle, initially very far from the gold nucleus, is fired at 1.5 107 m/s directly toward the nucleus, as in the figure below. How close does the alpha particle get to the gold nucleus before turning around? Assume the gold nucleus remains stationary. 7.71*10**31 Incorrect: Your answer is incorrect. Your response differs significantly from the correct answer. Rework your solution from the beginning and check each step carefully. m

Explanation / Answer

Using the conservation of energy;

Initial kinetic energy = final electrostatic potential energy

1/2*m*v2 = kq1q2/r

Hence;

r =  2*kq1q2/m*v2

k = 9*109 Nm2/C2 ; q1 = +2e; q2 = +79e; m = 6.64*10-27 kg; v = 1.5*107 m/s;

r = 3.55*10-10m

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