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

Answer 1

Answer: (A), (C), (D)

Only a few α-particles deflected away from their path after passing through the gold foil

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)