In Rutherford's alpha-particle scattering experiment, only a few alpha particles rebound back because
A. The size of gold nucleus is very small as compared to the size of gold atom.
B. Alpha particle and gold nucleus have equal charge.
C. The impact parameter is minimum for a few alpha particles.
D. A few alpha particles have very high kinetic energy.
E. Only a few alpha particles undergo head-on collision with the nuclei.
Choose the correct answer from the options given below :
Answer: (D) A, C, E Only
Concept. Large-angle scattering needs a nearly head-on approach (small impact parameter) to a tiny, heavy nucleus.
Step 1. Check. A: true, the nucleus is tiny. B: false; charges are $2e$ and $79e$. C: true. D: all particles had about the same energy, false. E: true.
Answer. A, C, E only (Option D).
Solution by Sreeraj P, M.Sc Physics
