1. Aug 30, 2005 #1

   asdf1

   

   why does an alpha particle have the smallest distance to an atom if it aprroaches the nucleus head on?

    

   asdf1, Aug 30, 2005
2. 
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3. Aug 31, 2005 #2

   jtbell

   

   Staff: Mentor

   Because if the alpha comes in head on, it can convert all of its kinetic energy to potential energy, coming to a complete stop momentarily before rebounding in the opposite direction. If it doesn't come in head on, it never comes to a complete stop, so its maximum potential energy is smaller.

    

   jtbell, Aug 31, 2005
4. Aug 31, 2005 #3

   asdf1

   

   oh right!!!
   thanks!!! :)

    

   asdf1, Aug 31, 2005

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