Question

Which of the following are the conclusion of Rutherford's alpha scattering experiment?

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

Answer 1

Answer: (B), (D)

The correct options are
B The mass and the positive charge of the atom are concentrated in the centre
D 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 almost all the positive charge and mass of the gold atom was concentrated in a very small volume in the centre.

Charge of an electron and the presence of neutrons were not observed during the experiment.