Why Does Rutherford Scattering Calculated Value Differ from the Book?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the discrepancies in calculated values of Rutherford scattering, specifically the differential cross section for alpha particles scattering from gold nuclei at 60 degrees. The user initially calculated d(sigma)/d(omega) as 36.93 using an incorrect value of hc (192 MeV/F), while the correct value is 197.3 MeV/F, leading to a result of approximately 20.65 barns, matching the book's value. Resources like Khan Academy and HyperPhysics are recommended for further understanding of these concepts.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Rutherford scattering principles
  • Familiarity with the Gieger-Marsden experiment
  • Knowledge of differential cross section calculations
  • Basic proficiency in using scientific constants and units
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the Rutherford scattering formula and its applications
  • Study the Gieger-Marsden experiment in detail
  • Learn about the significance of the differential cross section in particle physics
  • Explore online resources like Khan Academy and HyperPhysics for advanced physics concepts
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in physics, particularly those studying nuclear physics and scattering experiments, as well as researchers seeking to understand the intricacies of Rutherford scattering calculations.

Beer-monster
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I'm having problems with some of the more advanced questions about Rutherford Scattering and the Gieger-Marsden experiment. Can anyone suggest somewhere online where I can read up on this and that explains it well.

One question that bugged me was this:

use Rutherford scattering differential cross section to calculated
d(sigma)/d(omega) for MeV alpha particles scattering from gold nuclei at (Phi)= 60 degree

I used the equation

d(sigma)/d(omega) = ((Zzhc)/KE))^2(1?(16sin^4(Phi)/2))

where hc = 192.MeV/F

I get 36.93 but the book says 20.65 barns

Uh hope that makes sense to someone it doesn't to me
 
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What numbers did you plug in for the variables?
 


Hello,

I understand that you are having some difficulty with understanding the advanced concepts of Rutherford Scattering and the Gieger-Marsden experiment. I would recommend checking out some online resources such as Khan Academy or HyperPhysics which provide comprehensive explanations and examples of these concepts. Additionally, you can also refer to textbooks or scientific journals for a more in-depth understanding.

As for your specific question, the equation you used is correct, however, the value of hc you used (192 MeV/F) is incorrect. The correct value is 197.3 MeV/F. When using this value, the calculated value for d(sigma)/d(omega) comes out to be approximately 20.65 barns, as stated in the book.

I hope this helps clarify your doubts. Don't hesitate to reach out for further assistance. Good luck!
 

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