Question

In Rutherford's $\alpha$-particle scattering experiment, a very small fraction of $\alpha$ - particles were deflected by ${180}^{\circ }$. What did he conclude from this observation?

• A. All the positive charge and mass of the atom occupy very little space.
• B. Most of the space inside the atom is empty.
• C. All the positive charge and mass of the atom were concentrated in a very small volume.
• D. Both A and B

Answer 1

The correct option is C All the positive charge and mass of the atom were concentrated in a very small volume.

We conclude from this observation that all the positive charge and mass of the atom were concentrated in a very small volume. Therefore, a very small fraction of $\alpha$-particles are deflected by ${180}^{\circ }$.