Suppose Rutherford were able to somehow control the speed of the alpha particles he fired toward the gold nucleus.If he were able to double the speed of the alpha particles,the ones that are scattered backwards would get __________ times closer to the gold nucleus.
A)two
B)three
C)four

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The distance of closest approach is directly proportional to 1/(speed^2) of the alpha particle. If the speed of the alpha particles is doubled, then the distance of closest approach would be proportional to (1/2)^2 = 1/4. This means that the alpha particles would get two times closer to the gold nucleus. Therefore, the correct choice is A) two.

Suppose Rutherford Were Able to Somehow Control the Speed of the Alpha