To determine which configuration will result in the largest deflection of alpha particles, we need to consider a few factors, such as the speed (energy) of the alpha particles and the mass number of the particles in the field.
- Alpha particles are dense and positively charged (composed of 2 protons and 2 neutrons).
- Deflection occurs due to electrostatic (Coulomb) forces when charged particles come close to other charged particles. The larger the charge difference, the greater the interaction.
- Lower mass-number particles (like electrons or protons) will have less mass and can thus have a relatively more significant influence on the alpha particles’ trajectory if they are significantly lighter and/or more charged.
In this context:
- High-energy alpha particles moving through a field of low mass-number particles would experience less deflection because they have greater momentum, making them less influenced by the interactions.
- Low-energy alpha particles have less momentum, making them easier to deflect. When they move through a field of high mass-number particles, the larger mass can also mean larger interactions because they are closer in charge and mass.
The most effective scenario for large deflection would be:
- Low-energy alpha particles passing through a field of high mass-number particles.
This is because:
- Low-energy alpha particles will be less able to resist deflection due to their reduced momentum.
- High mass-number particles, though relatively stable, can still exert considerable electromagnetic force, leading to greater deflection.
Therefore, the correct answer is: low-energy alpha particles passing through a field of high mass-number particles.
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