Question

Which of the following quantities will be zero for alpha particles at the point of closest approach to the gold atom in Rutherford's scattering of alpha particles?

• A. Acceleration
• B. Kinetic energy
• C. Potential energy
• D. Electrical energy

Answer 1

The correct option is B Kinetic energy

$Explanation:$

$AccordingtopostulatesofRutherfor{d}^{\prime }satomicmodel.$

• Every atom consists of a nucleus containing the entire positive charge. Mass of atom is concentrated at this core.
• The size of the nucleus is very small compared to the size of the atom.
• The atom as a whole is electrically neutral with electrons revolving around the nucleus in various orbits.
• Thus the K.E will be zero for alpha particles at the point of closest approach to the gold atom in Rutherford's scattering of alpha particles

$Hencethecorrectanswerisoption\left(B\right).$