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Questions and Answers
What was the primary goal of Rutherford's experiment with alpha particles?
What was the primary goal of Rutherford's experiment with alpha particles?
- To determine the mass of alpha particles
- To study the arrangement of electrons within an atom (correct)
- To investigate the charge of gold atoms
- To measure the thickness of gold foil
Why did Rutherford choose gold foil for his experiment?
Why did Rutherford choose gold foil for his experiment?
- He wanted a material that could be easily ionized
- He wanted as thin a layer as possible for accurate results (correct)
- Gold is a noble metal and does not react
- Gold can be made into a thick layer
What characteristic of alpha particles contributed to their effectiveness in Rutherford’s experiment?
What characteristic of alpha particles contributed to their effectiveness in Rutherford’s experiment?
- Their ability to penetrate thick materials
- Their considerable amount of energy due to high mass (correct)
- Their low mass
- Their neutral charge
What does the thickness of the gold foil used in the experiment signify?
What does the thickness of the gold foil used in the experiment signify?
Which statement best describes the alpha particles used in Rutherford's experiment?
Which statement best describes the alpha particles used in Rutherford's experiment?
Study Notes
Rutherford's Experiment
- Ernest Rutherford aimed to determine the arrangement of electrons within an atom.
- Conducted an experiment using fast-moving alpha (α)-particles directed at thin gold foil.
Selection of Gold Foil
- Chose gold for its malleability and ability to be made into extremely thin sheets.
- The gold foil used was about 1000 atoms thick, allowing for effective observation of particle interaction.
Alpha Particles
- α-particles consist of doubly-charged helium ions, providing significant mass and energy.
- Each α-particle has a mass of 4 atomic mass units (u), contributing to their high kinetic energy.
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Description
Explore the groundbreaking experiments of Ernest Rutherford that revealed the structure of the atom. This quiz covers the arrangement of electrons and the significance of using thin gold foil in his alpha particle scattering experiment. Test your understanding of atomic theory and its historical context.
