Question

What is/are the conclusions from Rutherford's $\alpha$ - particle scattering experiment?

• A. Electrons have a negative charge.
• B. The mass and the positive charge of the atom are concentrated in the nucleus.
• C. Most of the space in the atom is empty.
• D. Neutron exists in the nucleus.

Answer 1

Answer: (B), (C)

The correct options are
B

The mass and the positive charge of the atom are concentrated in the nucleus.

C

Most of the space in the atom is empty.

Following are Rutherford’s conclusions from the α-particle scattering experiment–

(i) Most of the space inside the atom is empty because most of the α-particles passed through the gold foil without getting deflected.

(ii) Very few particles were deflected from their path, indicating that the positive charge of the atom occupies very little space.

(iii) A very small fraction of α-particles was deflected by 180${}^0$, indicating that all the positive charge and mass of the gold atom were concentrated in a very small volume (the center) within the atom.