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Question

In scattering, the impact parameter b is defined as the:


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Solution

Impact Parameter

  1. The scattering of an α-particle from a nucleus depends on its distance of closest approach to the nucleus or on an equivalent length, called the impact parameter 'b'.
  2. The impact parameter is defined as the perpendicular distance of the velocity vector of the α-particle from the centre of the nucleus, when it is far away from the atom.
  3. For large impact parameters, the repulsive force experienced by the α-particle is weak (because of its inverse square law character) and the α-particle passes almost undeflected.
  4. For small impact parameter, the repulsive force is large and so the α-particle is scattered through large angle.
  5. For a head-on collision, when the α-particle just aims at the centre of the nucleus, the impact parameter b=0, scattering angle θ=180°, ie, the α-particle is reversed back along its original path.
  6. Thus the shape of the trajectory of the scattered α-particles depends on the impact parameter and the nature of the potential field.

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