In Geiger-Marsden experiment, the number of scattered -particles N( ) is plotted as a function of scattering angle . Which of the following options represents the correct plot?
- [figure]
- [figure]
- [figure]
- [figure]
Answer
(4) [figure]
Solution
In Rutherford's -particle scattering experiment, the number of scattered -particles is given by:
N( ) 1 4( / 2)
At small angles , N( ) is extremely high, and it drops steeply as the scattering angle increases, forming a curve that is concave upwards on a logarithmic scale of N( ). This is correctly represented by option (4).
Answer: (4)