If Rutherford had used β⁻ particles instead of α-particles in his gold-leaf experiment, which observation from the original experiment would not occur?

Correct answer: A. Large-angle back-scattering of particles

  • A. Large-angle back-scattering of particles
  • B. Majority of particles passing undeflected through the foil
  • C. Very few particles getting absorbed
  • D. Wave nature of electrons

Explanation

Rutherford's key observation was the back-scattering of a few massive α-particles, which revealed a small, dense, positive nucleus. Lightweight β-particles (electrons), being attracted to the nucleus and having very little momentum, would not rebound at large angles in the same way.

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