What law did Ernest Rutherford use to estimate the size of the nucleus?
(a) conservation of nucleon number
(b) conservation of energy
(c) conservation of charge
(d) conservation of angular momentum?

Question

What law did Ernest Rutherford use to estimate the size of the nucleus?(a) conservation of nucleon number(b) conservation of energy(c) conservation of charge(d) conservation of angular momentum?

Answer

Ernest Rutherford's Estimation of Nucleus Size
To estimate the size of the atomic nucleus, Ernest Rutherford primarily employed the principle of the conservation of energy. His groundbreaking experiments, particularly the gold foil experiment, led to a remarkable understanding of atomic structure.
Key Concepts Involved
- Rutherford's Gold Foil Experiment:
- In this experiment, alpha particles were fired at a thin gold foil.
- Most passed through, but some were deflected at large angles, indicating a concentrated positive charge.
- Conservation of Energy:
- Rutherford used the kinetic energy of the alpha particles to analyze their interactions with the gold nuclei.
- When an alpha particle approaches a nucleus, it experiences a repulsive force due to electrostatic interactions.
Calculation of Nucleus Size
- Kinetic Energy Consideration:
- The kinetic energy of the incoming alpha particles was compared to the potential energy at the closest approach to the nucleus.
- By setting the kinetic energy equal to the potential energy at the point of closest approach, he could infer the size of the nucleus.
- Estimates:
- This analysis revealed that the nucleus is much smaller than the atom itself, with a radius on the order of 10^-15 meters.
Conclusion
Rutherford's use of the conservation of energy was pivotal in not only estimating the size of the nucleus but also in reshaping our understanding of atomic structure. His findings laid the groundwork for modern atomic physics and nuclear theory.

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