Question

Using the steps outlined below, calculate the distance of closest approach when alpha particles with a kinetic energy of 8.1 MeV are scattered by a thin zinc foil.

a.What should be the arrangement of the particles for the alpha particle to get as close as possible to the zinc nucleus? (Head on or glancing inter action?)

b. Write an expression for the electrostatic potential energy of a system consisting of an alpha particle and a zinc nucleus.This should be a function of the Z of the alpha particle, the Z of the nucleus,some constants,and the separation between them.

c.What is the electrostatic potential energy of the alpha-zinc system when the alpha particle is far away from the zinc nucleus?

d. What is the kinetic energy of the alpha particle the moment it has reached closest approach?

e. Use your expressions from b -d to set up an energy conservation equation, and solve for the distance of close st approach.

f.Compare this value to the radius of the zinc nucleus, reported as 142 pm

Answer 1

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