Derivation of Rutherford Scattering - angular momentum

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on deriving the angular momentum of an alpha particle during Rutherford scattering, specifically at point M. The angular momentum magnitude is expressed as \( m r^2 \frac{d \phi}{dt} \). Key equations include the linear momentum \( \vec L = \vec r \times \vec p \) and the repulsive Coulomb force \( \vec F = \frac{k 2Ze^2}{r^2} \frac{\vec r}{r} \). The challenge lies in determining the velocity \( \vec v_M \) as the alpha particle approaches the nucleus, which involves complex integrals that require expressing time \( t \) in terms of the angle \( \phi \).

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  • Understanding of angular momentum in classical mechanics
  • Familiarity with Coulomb's law and electrostatic forces
  • Knowledge of polar coordinates and their application in physics
  • Ability to perform calculus, particularly integration of vector functions
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This discussion is beneficial for physics students, particularly those studying classical mechanics and particle physics, as well as educators seeking to clarify concepts related to angular momentum and scattering processes.

alexjean
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Homework Statement


I am trying to show that as the alpha particle is being scattered, the angular momentum magnitude at point M is m r^2 \frac{d \phi}{dt}.

Diagram:
upload_2016-1-20_10-22-57.png

Homework Equations


Linear Momentum: ##\vec L = \vec r \times \vec p ##
Repulsive Coulomb Force: ##\vec F = \frac{k 2Ze^2}{r^2} \frac{\vec r}{r}##

The Attempt at a Solution


As the alpha particle approaches the nucleus, the repulsive force begins acting on it. Changing it's velocity:
##\vec v_M = \int_{t_{-\infty}}^{t_{M}} \frac{\vec F(\phi)}{m} t \, dt + \vec v_0 ##

If I could solve that integral, I would know the velocity for any angle ##\phi##. Allowing me to solve for angular momentum in terms of ##\vec r##. However, that integral is a mess. I would need to get time, ##t## in terms of ##\phi##. I've attempted that below, but it doesn't look promising:

##t = \frac{\Delta \vec r}{\vec v} ##
## t = \int \frac{1}{\vec v} \, d\vec r ##,
## t_M = \int_{<-\infty,0>}^{\vec r_M} \frac{1}{\vec v} \, d\vec r ##
## \frac{dt}{d\vec r} = \frac{1}{\vec v} ##

Substituting into the original integral:
## \vec v_M = \int_{<-\infty,0>}^{\vec r_M} \frac{\vec F(\phi)}{m} (\int_{<-\infty,0>}^{\vec r_M} \frac{1}{\vec v} \, d\vec r) \frac{1}{\vec v} \, d\vec r + \vec v_0 ##

Most derivations of this I've found online seem to glaze over the determination of angular momentum at point M, making me think I've missed something simple. Could anyone point me toward a better approach?
 

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alexjean said:

Homework Statement


I am trying to show that as the alpha particle is being scattered, the angular momentum magnitude at point M is m r^2 \frac{d \phi}{dt}.

Diagram:
View attachment 94534

Homework Equations


Linear Momentum: ##\vec L = \vec r \times \vec p ##
Repulsive Coulomb Force: ##\vec F = \frac{k 2Ze^2}{r^2} \frac{\vec r}{r}##

The Attempt at a Solution


As the alpha particle approaches the nucleus, the repulsive force begins acting on it. Changing it's velocity:
##\vec v_M = \int_{t_{-\infty}}^{t_{M}} \frac{\vec F(\phi)}{m} t \, dt + \vec v_0 ##

The angular momentum is ##L=\vec L = \vec r \times \vec p ##.
Is M the point of closest approach?
The momentum ,##vec p = m \vec v. In polar system of coordinates, the velocity has a radial component and a transversal one. See http://pioneer.netserv.chula.ac.th/~anopdana/211/24rtheta.pdf The vector product with the radial component is zero. The transversal component of the velocity is r dφ/dt. It is easy to get angular momentum from here.
 
The book claims the answer is that all the magnitudes are the same because "the gravitational force on the penguin is the same". I'm having trouble understanding this. I thought the buoyant force was equal to the weight of the fluid displaced. Weight depends on mass which depends on density. Therefore, due to the differing densities the buoyant force will be different in each case? Is this incorrect?

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