# Rutherford Scattering Problem

1. Jul 29, 2008

### BubbaJonze

1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data

An Alpha particle of a Rutherford-type scattering experiment is shot directly toward a platinum nucleus. One of the particles was apparently aimed directly at the centre of the nucleus cause it shot 180 degrees back along the same path. How close does it come to the platinum nucleus?

2. Relevant equations

Kinetic energy of Alpha particle: 4.0 MeV

3. The attempt at a solution
Doubt this is right, but I figured energy conservation had something to do with it.
$$\sum$$E$$_{}initial$$=$$\sum$$E$$_{}final$$

After some re-arranging, this is what I came up with:
$$\frac{Kq_{1}q_{2}}{r}$$=E

So I figured I was solving for r, in which case i got this formula $$\frac{Kq_{1}q_{2}}{E}$$
K= Planck's constant
q= elementary charge
E= 4.0MeV (?)

Can someone tell me if I'm anywhere near the right track? We didn't really learn about it, but my instructor stated it was a "challenger" question.

2. Jul 29, 2008

### G01

You are on the right track.

K is not Planck's constant though. $K =9X10^9$.

Planck's constant, on the other hand, is usually denoted by h and is $6.626X10^-34$

Just remember that while q_1=electronic charge, q_2 will be the charge of the other body in the problem, the platinum nucleus.

3. Jul 29, 2008

### BubbaJonze

Oh, that's right. I guess I got a little confused since Coulomb's Law was in my last unit and now my constants are all messed up. Thanks.

4. Jul 30, 2008

Anytime.