CAIE IGCSE Physics Alpha-Particle Scattering and Nuclear Atom

Practise linking each alpha-scattering observation to evidence for mostly empty space and a tiny, dense, positively charged nucleus containing most mass.

Exam points

link most alpha particles passing straight through foil to the atom being mostly empty space
link rare large-angle or backward deflections to a very small, dense nucleus containing most mass
explain deflection as repulsion between positive alpha particles and a positively charged nucleus

[Maximum number: 3]

The arrows in Fig. 11.1 represent the paths of three $\alpha$ -particles moving towards gold nuclei in a thin foil. The gold nuclei are shown as shaded circles.

Fig. 11.1

On Fig. 11.1, complete the paths of the three $\alpha$ -particles.

middle: any path to the left within $45^{\circ}$
of horizontal

B1

bottom: path to the right and deflected down ending in a straight line

B1

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5.1.1.3—Alpha-particle scattering by thin question 1