Alpha Particle Scattering Analogue

Product Code: 759122

Description

Grade 9–College. Ernest Rutherford’s landmark experiment (Rutherford scattering) confirmed the existence of an incredibly compact, positively charged atomic nucleus and led to the Rutherford and Bohr models of the atom.

This experiment enables students to study Rutherford scattering using a gravitational analogue to model the inverse square Coulomb interaction (repulsion). In lieu of a radioactive source, an aluminum hill, steel balls, and a wooden launching ramp are used.

The launching ramp is 300 x 48 x 105 mm with a guide groove down its curved front face. It has index marks at 40, 60, 80 and 100 mm above its base to provide a variety of known launching heights. Kit includes a manual and enough materials for a small lab group or demonstration.