Question detail
What did the alpha particle scattering experiment suggest about the structure of an atom?
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 mostly empty space
- B. Atoms are solid and indivisible
- C. Atoms contain only protons
- D. Atoms have no electrical charge
Answer
The correct answer is A: Atoms are mostly empty space.
Explanation
The correct answer is A: Atoms are mostly empty space. This supports the learning objective "Explain why most alpha particles passing straight through gold foil suggested that atoms are mostly empty space." 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 indivisible; Atoms contain only protons; Atoms have no electrical charge.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Atomic Structure
Students often think that atoms are solid and have no empty space.
Emphasize that most of an atom's volume is empty space, as demonstrated by the alpha particle scattering experiment.
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