The lowest possible angle of validity of the Rutherford scattering formula is determined on the basis of a simple hypothesis. The corresponding impact parameter is then obtained and related to the distance between scattering nuclei that would exist if the scattering foil could be compressed into a single layer of atoms arranged in a square array.
This content is only available via PDF.
© 1975 American Association of Physics Teachers.
1975
American Association of Physics Teachers
AAPT members receive access to the American Journal of Physics and The Physics Teacher as a member benefit. To learn more about this member benefit and becoming an AAPT member, visit the Joining AAPT page.
