Question

Which of the following observations of α-particle scattering experiment led to the presence of a small positively charged nucleus in the centre?

• A. Most of the α–particles passed through the gold foil undeflected
• B. Only a few α-particles deflected away from their path after passing through the gold foil
• C. Very few α-particles rebounded
• D. None of the above

Answer 1

Answer: (A), (B), (C)

The correct options are
A Most of the α–particles passed through the gold foil undeflected
B Only a few α-particles deflected away from their path after passing through the gold foil
C Very few α-particles rebounded

Alpha particles passed through the gold foil as shown below.


Following are the observations which conclude the presence of the nucleus at the center of the atom:

• Most of the alpha particles passed undeflected through the gold foil i.e. most of the atom consists of empty spaces.
• Some of the alpha rays were deflected back at an angle. (presence of nucleus)
• Very few alpha particles bounced back by 180 degrees. (Alpha rays hit the center of the nucleus)