Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Atoms, nuclei and radiation

Atoms, nuclei and radiation — practice question

Fig. 6.1 illustrates four alpha particles W, X, Y and Z approaching a gold nucleus within thin gold foil.
(a(i))[3]

The tracks for particles X and Z are already drawn. Complete Fig. 6.1 by adding possible tracks for W and Y.

(a(ii))[1]

What can be inferred about atomic structure from the track of particle X?

(a(iii))[1]

When a beam containing many alpha particles strikes thin gold foil, almost all of the alpha particles travel along paths similar to particle Z. Describe what can be inferred from this about atomic structure.

(b)[2]

State the mass and the charge, in terms of the atomic mass unit $u$ and the elementary charge $e$, of an alpha particle.

(c(i))[1]

There are two kinds of hadron. The hadrons found in alpha particles are each made up of three quarks. State the name of this type of hadron.

(c(ii))[2]

Show, by referring to their constituent quarks, that the hadrons in an alpha particle have charges of either zero or $+1e$.

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