You plan to pass alpha particles through a field that contains a consistent type of particle. Which configuration will result in the largest deflection of alpha particles? (1 point)

Question

Responses

low-energy alpha particles passing through a field of high mass-number-particles
low-energy alpha particles passing through a field of high mass-number-particles

high-energy alpha particles passing through a field of high mass-number-particles
high-energy alpha particles passing through a field of high mass-number-particles

low-energy alpha particles passing through a field of low mass-number-particles
low-energy alpha particles passing through a field of low mass-number-particles

high-energy alpha particles passing through a field of low mass-number-particles

Answer 1

To determine which configuration will result in the largest deflection of alpha particles, we need to consider a few key factors:

• Energy of the alpha particles: Lower energy alpha particles will be deflected more than high-energy alpha particles when they interact with a field of particles because they interact more with the field, while high-energy particles have more momentum and are less affected by the field.

• Mass of the particles in the field: The mass of the particles in the field also affects the scattering. Generally, lighter particles will result in greater deflection of alpha particles compared to heavier particles.

Based on these principles, the best option for the largest deflection would be:

low-energy alpha particles passing through a field of low mass-number particles

This combination maximizes the deflection due to the lower energy of the alpha particles and the low mass of the particles in the field.