Question detail
In the context of the alpha particle scattering experiment, what does it mean if most alpha particles pass straight through the gold foil?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Atoms and isotopes
Question
- A. Atoms are solid and dense
- B. Atoms are mostly empty space
- C. Electrons are negatively charged
- D. Nuclei are large and heavy
Answer
The correct answer is B: Atoms are mostly empty space.
Explanation
The correct answer is B: Atoms are mostly empty space. This supports the learning objective "Explain why a few alpha particles bouncing back suggested that most of the atom's mass is concentrated in the nucleus." in The development of the model of the atom because it uses the correct atomic and nuclear radiation relationship for Atoms and isotopes. The other options are less suitable because they do not match the required The development of the model of the atom idea: Atoms are solid and dense; Electrons are negatively charged; Nuclei are large and heavy.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Alpha Particle Scattering
Students often think that the deflection of alpha particles is the main evidence for the nucleus's existence, rather than understanding that the bouncing back of a few particles indicates a concentrated mass.
Focus on the significance of the few alpha particles that bounce back, as this suggests that most of the atom's mass is concentrated in a small nucleus, rather than just the deflection of particles.
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