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

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

Answer 1

To achieve the largest deflection of alpha particles, you should consider both the energy of the alpha particles and the mass of the target particles.

• Low-energy alpha particles are less influenced by their own kinetic energy and are more susceptible to deflection by the electric field of the target particles.
• High mass-number particles exert a stronger attractive or repulsive force on alpha particles due to their greater charge.

Given these considerations, the configuration that will result in the largest deflection of alpha particles would be:

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

This setup allows for significant interaction with the high mass-number particles, enhancing the deflection effect.