The distance of closest approach.

Question

Suppose the alpha particle in a Rutherford scattering experiment is replaced with a proton of the same initial kinetic energy and also headed directly toward the nucleus of the gold atom. (a) Will the distance from the center of the nucleus at which the proton stops be greater than, less than, or the same as that of the alpha particle? (b) If, instead, we switch the target to a nucleus with a larger value of Z, is the stopping distance of the alpha particle greater than, less than, or the same as with the gold target?

Answer 1

Question

Chapter 28, Problem 6P

To determine

The distance of closest approach.

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