The distance of closest approach of an alpha particle is the minimum distance between the alpha particle and the nucleus of an atom in a particular collision or interaction.
The distance of closest approach of an alpha particle is calculated using the Rutherford scattering formula, which takes into account the charge and mass of the alpha particle, as well as the charge and size of the nucleus.
The distance of closest approach of an alpha particle is affected by the kinetic energy of the alpha particle, the charge and mass of the alpha particle and the nucleus, and the angle of incidence of the alpha particle.
The distance of closest approach of an alpha particle is important in nuclear physics because it provides information about the size and structure of the nucleus, as well as the forces that hold the nucleus together.
The distance of closest approach of an alpha particle is used in medical applications, such as radiation therapy, to determine the range and intensity of alpha particles in the body for targeted cancer treatment.