Why Does Rutherford Scattering Calculated Value Differ from the Book?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on discrepancies in calculated values for Rutherford scattering compared to textbook results. A user is confused about their calculation of the differential cross section for alpha particles scattering from gold nuclei, yielding a value of 36.93 instead of the book's 20.65 barns. The equation used is correct, but the user mistakenly applied an incorrect value for hc, which should be 197.3 MeV/F instead of 192 MeV/F. Correcting this value aligns the user's calculation with the textbook result. Online resources like Khan Academy and HyperPhysics are recommended for further understanding of these concepts.
Beer-monster
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I'm having problems with some of the more advanced questions about Rutherford Scattering and the Gieger-Marsden experiment. Can anyone suggest somewhere online where I can read up on this and that explains it well.

One question that bugged me was this:

use Rutherford scattering differential cross section to calculated
d(sigma)/d(omega) for MeV alpha particles scattering from gold nuclei at (Phi)= 60 degree

I used the equation

d(sigma)/d(omega) = ((Zzhc)/KE))^2(1?(16sin^4(Phi)/2))

where hc = 192.MeV/F

I get 36.93 but the book says 20.65 barns

Uh hope that makes sense to someone it doesn't to me
 
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What numbers did you plug in for the variables?
 


Hello,

I understand that you are having some difficulty with understanding the advanced concepts of Rutherford Scattering and the Gieger-Marsden experiment. I would recommend checking out some online resources such as Khan Academy or HyperPhysics which provide comprehensive explanations and examples of these concepts. Additionally, you can also refer to textbooks or scientific journals for a more in-depth understanding.

As for your specific question, the equation you used is correct, however, the value of hc you used (192 MeV/F) is incorrect. The correct value is 197.3 MeV/F. When using this value, the calculated value for d(sigma)/d(omega) comes out to be approximately 20.65 barns, as stated in the book.

I hope this helps clarify your doubts. Don't hesitate to reach out for further assistance. Good luck!
 
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