Exam-style question
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Which observation from Rutherford's alpha scattering experiment contradicted the plum pudding model?.
- A.Most alpha particles passed through the foil.
- B.Some alpha particles were deflected at large angles.
- C.Alpha particles were absorbed by the foil.
- D.Alpha particles lost energy upon passing through.
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- Some alpha particles were deflected at large angles.
Explanation
Why this works
The significant deflection of some alpha particles at large angles indicated that a concentrated positive charge existed within the atom, contradicting the plum pudding model which suggested a uniform distribution of charge. This led to the conclusion that atoms have a dense nucleus.
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