Question

If a silver foil is bombarded by 5.0 MeV alpha particles, calculate the deflection of the alpha particles when the impact parameter is equal to the distance of closest approach.

Answer 1

When distance of closest approach b = R₀ 

tan(θ/2) = R₀/2b = 0.5 = tan26.56^◦ 

Therefore, θ/2 = 26.56^◦ or θ = 53.1^◦