40. The Rutherford-Geiger-Marsden experiment shows that: • A. alpha particles do not obey Coulombs

The Rutherford-Geiger-Marsden experiment shows that:
• A. alpha particles do not obey Coulomb’s law.
• B. there is a fixed nuclear radius for each nucleus.
• C. a large proportion of alpha particles are undeflected.
• D. the Bohr model of the hydrogen atom is confirmed.
Answer Key: C. a large proportion of alpha particles are undeflected.
This question, taken from the IBDP Physics HL exam, examines students’ understanding of the Rutherford-Geiger-Marsden experiment, which provided insight into the structure of the atom. This foundational experiment led to the discovery of the nucleus and refuted the plum pudding model of the atom.
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Enrichment of Key Concepts:
The Rutherford-Geiger-Marsden experiment, often called the gold foil experiment, was a groundbreaking study that changed our understanding of atomic structure. It involved directing a beam of alpha particles at a thin gold foil and observing their scattering patterns. The results led to a new model of the atom, revealing the existence of a dense, positively charged nucleus.
Concept Explanation:
1. Alpha Particle Deflection: The experiment showed that most alpha particles passed through the foil undeflected, indicating that atoms are mostly empty space. This observation supports option C, as a large proportion of alpha particles were indeed undeflected.
2. Discovery of the Nucleus: A small fraction of alpha particles were deflected at large angles, and some even bounced back. This unexpected deflection suggested that a dense, positively charged nucleus occupied a small volume at the center of the atom.
3. Impact on Atomic Models: This experiment disproved the plum pudding model, which assumed a diffuse positive charge. Instead, Rutherford’s nuclear model proposed that electrons orbit a dense nucleus, setting the stage for future developments in atomic theory.
Application and Importance: The Rutherford experiment is crucial in atomic physics, as it introduced the concept of the nucleus and established a foundation for the nuclear model of the atom. Understanding atomic structure is fundamental in fields like chemistry, nuclear physics, and particle physics.
Relevance in Real-World Applications: Knowledge of atomic structure is essential for various applications, from nuclear energy production to medical imaging. The experiment's findings laid the groundwork for quantum mechanics and atomic physics, impacting multiple scientific and technological fields.
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IBDP Learner Profiles, Skills, and Aims:
• Learner Profiles: This question encourages the "Inquirer" and "Knowledgeable" profiles, prompting students to explore the nature of atomic structure and its historical development.
• Skills Enhanced: Analytical skills in interpreting experimental results, understanding scientific methodologies, and applying historical experiments to modern concepts.
• Aims: This question aligns with IBDP aims to develop scientific inquiry skills, foster an understanding of foundational physics experiments, and promote curiosity about the nature of matter.
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Keywords: IBDP Physics, HL Physics, Rutherford experiment, atomic structure, alpha particle scattering, nucleus, gold foil experiment, nuclear model, IBDP curriculum.
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#Hashtags: #IBPhysics #PhysicsHL #RutherfordExperiment #AtomicStructure #GoldFoilExperiment #NuclearPhysics #IBDP #PhysicsConcepts #AlphaParticle #IBPhysics2020
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Inquiry Questions for Teachers:
1. Why did most alpha particles pass through the gold foil without deflection?
2. How did the Rutherford experiment lead to the discovery of the nucleus?
3. What were the limitations of the plum pudding model, and how did the Rutherford model address them?
4. How does the concept of atomic structure apply in fields like nuclear physics and chemistry? Links

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