# Homework Help: Scattering in a central potential

1. Nov 28, 2006

### Logarythmic

How can I compute the differential scattering cross section $$\sigma (\theta) d \theta$$ for scattering in the central potential
$$V(r) = \frac{k}{r^2}$$
using classical mechanics?

2. Nov 28, 2006

### dextercioby

Ever seen Rutherford's approach to alpha particles scattered on a Coulomb potential made by the gold atoms ?

Just mimick the computations.

Daniel.

3. Nov 28, 2006

### Logarythmic

If you mean the Geiger-Marsden experiment, I have read about it but never seen any calculations. Any tip on where I can find it?

4. Nov 28, 2006

### dextercioby

Appendix #9 from Max Born's "Atomic Physics" is the first i could come up with.

Daniel.

5. Nov 28, 2006

### Logarythmic

Well, that book is not a part of my collection so can you help me in any other way? ;)

6. Nov 28, 2006

### dextercioby

Last edited by a moderator: May 2, 2017
7. Nov 28, 2006

### Logarythmic

Sorry, I can't figure this out. This is an inverse qubic force, not an inverse square force.

8. Nov 28, 2006

### dextercioby

Yes, but the technique is the same.

Daniel.

9. Nov 28, 2006

### Meir Achuz

Goldstein's "Classical Mechanics" derives the Rutherford cross section.

10. Nov 28, 2006

### Logarythmic

That's the book I'm using but it seems like I don't understand it.