CAIE IGCSE Physics 5.1.1 The atom Question Bank

Practise interpreting atomic diagrams, ion formation and alpha-scattering evidence for the nuclear model of the atom.

Exam points

interpret atom diagrams to place protons, neutrons and electrons correctly
distinguish ion formation by electron loss or gain, not changes inside the nucleus
link alpha-particle scattering paths to empty space and a small positive nucleus

Covered syllabus points

5.1.1.1—Structure of an atom in terms of a 5.1.1.2—How atoms may form positive ions by 5.1.1.3—Alpha-particle scattering by thin

[Maximum number: 3]

Describe the structure of an atom of helium- $4,{ }_{2}^{4} \mathrm{He}$ .

[Maximum number: 1]

A magnesium ion has a double positive charge and a chloride ion has a single negative charge.
Which statement is correct?

A chlorine atom gains an electron to form the chloride ion.

A chlorine atom loses a proton to form the chloride ion.

A magnesium atom loses an electron to form the magnesium ion.

A magnesium atom gains two electrons to form the magnesium ion.

[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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Covered syllabus points

5.1.1 The atom question 1

5.1.1 The atom question 2

5.1.1 The atom question 3