Question detail
What did the alpha scattering experiment conducted by Geiger and Marsden demonstrate about atomic structure?
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 indivisible
- B. Atoms consist of a solid mass
- C. Atoms have a small, dense nucleus
- D. Atoms are made up of only protons
Answer
The correct answer is C: Atoms have a small, dense nucleus.
Explanation
The correct answer is C: Atoms have a small, dense nucleus. This supports the learning objective "Explain why some alpha particles being deflected suggested that positive charge is concentrated in a small 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 indivisible; Atoms consist of a solid mass; Atoms are made up of only protons.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Alpha Particle Deflection
Students often think that all alpha particles should be deflected by the nucleus, leading them to believe that the nucleus is large and occupies most of the atom's volume.
Emphasize that only a small fraction of alpha particles are deflected, indicating that the nucleus is small and dense, while most of the atom is empty space.
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