Chemistry Topic Practice

The Alpha Scattering Experiment | GCSE Chemistry

Rutherford’s alpha scattering experiment provided the evidence for the nuclear model of the atom.

Most alpha particles went straight through the gold foil. What did this prove?

What is The Alpha Scattering Experiment | GCSE Chemistry?

"A landmark experiment by Ernest Rutherford that led to the discovery of the atomic nucleus."

Question 1

What is the charge of a proton?

Question 2

Who provided the evidence to show that neutrons exist in the nucleus?

Question 3

What did the alpha particle scattering experiment prove?

Question 4

Which two subatomic particles are found in the nucleus of an atom?

The Nuclear Discovery

Experiment: Firing alpha particles at thin gold foil.

Observations: Most pass through; some deflect; a few bounce back.

Conclusions: Atoms are mostly empty space; they have a small, dense, positive nucleus.

Replaced the "Plum Pudding" model of the atom.

Exam Tip

Physics Link: This is also a core topic in GCSE Physics. The evidence is the same!

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