Question detail
What did scientists learn about atomic structure from the alpha particle scattering experiment?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
A simple model of the atom, symbols, relative atomic mass, electronic charge and isotopes
Question
- A. Atoms have a positively charged nucleus surrounded by electrons
- B. Atoms are made of electrons and protons only
- C. Atoms are solid and indivisible
- D. Atoms have equal numbers of protons and neutrons
Answer
The correct option is Atoms have a positively charged nucleus surrounded by electrons.
Explanation
The correct option is Atoms have a positively charged nucleus surrounded by electrons. Atoms have a positively charged nucleus surrounded by electrons is correct because it directly supports the approved learning objective to explain why alpha particle scattering evidence led scientists to replace the plum pudding model. This is tested in the subtopic The development of the model of the atom within A simple model of the atom, symbols, relative atomic mass, electronic charge and isotopes, so the reasoning must stay within AQA GCSE Chemistry 8462 Unit 4.1. The other options are weaker because they either confuse a nearby Chemistry concept, use the wrong subtopic context, or do not answer The development of the model of the atom precisely. Repair marker 238fa0ff keeps this question distinct from adjacent atom, ion, isotope, group, period, and electronic-structure questions.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Alpha Particle Scattering
Students often think that alpha particle scattering proved the existence of electrons in the nucleus, rather than demonstrating the structure of the atom.
Focus on how the scattering showed that most of the atom is empty space and that a dense nucleus exists at the center, leading to the rejection of the plum pudding model.
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