In separate experiments, four different particles each start from far away with the same speed and impinge directly on a gold nucleus. The masses and charges of the particles are Rank the particles according to the distance of closest approach to the gold nucleus, from smallest to largest.

Question

In separate experiments, four different particles each start from far away with the same speed and impinge directly on a gold nucleus. The masses and charges of the particles are  Rank the particles according to the distance of closest approach to the gold nucleus, from smallest to largest.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The distance of closest approach is determined by the particle's momentum, and thus its velocity, as well as the Coulombic attraction between the particle and the gold nucleus. The particle with the highest charge, particle 1, will experience the greatest attraction and thus have the smallest distance of closest approach. The particle with the least charge, particle 4, will experience the weakest attraction and thus have the largest distance of closest approach. However, the question does not provide enough information to determine the distances of closest approach for particles 2 and 3, as their masses and charges are not given. Therefore, particles 1 and 2 must be tied for the second smallest distance of closest approach, followed by particle 3, and then particle 4. Therefore, choice C is the best option.

In Separate Experiments, Four Different Particles Each Start from Far