Rutherford scattering experiment

In summary, the speaker is confused about how alpha particles can pass through a thin gold foil in the Rutherford scattering experiment, but can also be stopped by a piece of paper. Another person explains that the gold foil is much thinner than the paper, so the particles are able to pass through it.
  • #1
einstein1921
76
0
Hi,everyone!I have a problem!As known to us all,in Rutherford scattering experiment α rays are used to bomb gold foil, and most of them pass through the gold foil.But today I read something about the characteristics of α particles,the book says that you can stop α rays with a piece of paper. However,If you can stop it with a piece of paper,how can it go
through the gold foil! Your help would be highly appreciated.
 
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  • #2
The gold foil (<1µm) is thinner than the paper (~100µm).
 
  • #3
mfb said:
The gold foil (<1µm) is thinner than the paper (~100µm).

Thank you,mfb.I get it!
 

1. What is the Rutherford scattering experiment?

The Rutherford scattering experiment, also known as the gold foil experiment, was a landmark experiment in nuclear physics conducted by Ernest Rutherford in 1911. It involved bombarding a thin sheet of gold foil with alpha particles to study the structure of the atom.

2. What were the main findings of the Rutherford scattering experiment?

The main findings of the Rutherford scattering experiment were that atoms have a small, dense, positively charged nucleus at their center and that most of the atom is made up of empty space. This disproved the previously accepted plum pudding model of the atom.

3. How did the Rutherford scattering experiment contribute to our understanding of atomic structure?

The Rutherford scattering experiment provided evidence for the existence of a nucleus in atoms and led to the development of the nuclear model of the atom. It also helped scientists understand the structure and behavior of subatomic particles such as protons and neutrons.

4. What is the significance of the Rutherford scattering experiment in the history of science?

The Rutherford scattering experiment is considered one of the most important experiments in the history of science. It revolutionized our understanding of atomic structure and paved the way for further discoveries in nuclear physics. It also helped Rutherford win the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1908.

5. How is the Rutherford scattering experiment relevant today?

The Rutherford scattering experiment laid the foundation for the study of nuclear physics, which has numerous practical applications in fields such as energy production, medicine, and materials science. It also continues to be a key experiment in understanding the fundamental building blocks of matter.

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