Question

Rutherford’s alpha-particle scattering experiment was responsible for the discovery of :

• A. Atomic nucleus
• B. Electron
• C. proton
• D. Neutron

Answer 1

The correct option is A

Atomic nucleus

Explanation of correct option:

Option A

Rutherford's model of an atom:

• The whole mass and positive charge of an atom are concentrated in a very small region at the center known as the nucleus.
• The positive charge on the nucleus is due to protons. The number of protons is different for atoms of different elements, therefore, the magnitude of positive charge on the nucleus is different for atoms of different elements.
• The nucleus is surrounded by negatively charged particles called electrons.
• The number of electrons in an atom is equal to the number of protons (positively charged) in the nucleus. Thus, the atom as a whole is neutral.
• So, Rutherford's alpha-particle scattering experiment was responsible for the discovery of atomic nucleus

Explanation of incorrect option:

Option B

• Electrons are negatively charged particles that revolve around the nucleus in a circular path called an orbit.
• Electron was discovered by J.J Thomson.

Option C

• Protons are positively charged particles present in the nucleus.
• Proton was discovered by E. Goldstein.

Option D

• Neutrons are neutral particles present in the nucleus along with the protons.
• Neutron was discovered by Chadwick.

Hence, option (A) is correct.