A Modern Approach to Quantum Mechanics · Problem 13.5

Photons and Atoms — John S. Townsend

Physics — Quantum Mechanics · rutherford-scattering-validity

Problem

In the initial Rutherford scattering experiment Geiger and Marsden used α\alpha particles with an energy of 5 MeV. Choose a reasonable value for m0m_0 and determine the range of angles for which (13.56) should be valid. Suggestion: Write m0=1/am_0 = 1/a, where aa is a characteristic screening length. How large should aa be? Note: Interaction with the electrons in the atom produces a deflection on the order of 10−410^{-4} radians.

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