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.