Assumptions of Rutherford’s Theory of α-Particle ScatteringRutherford developed his theory of α-particle scattering on the basis of a number ofassumptions. These assumptions are mentioned below-(i)The first and foremost assumption, that was the basis of his entire theory, was theconcept of the nucleus. Rutherford assumed that the entire positive charge of the atomwas concentrated in a very tiny, very massive part at its centre. The negatively chargedelectrons were present in a relatively much vaster volume around this nucleus and themajor part of the atom was thus just empty space or vacuum. (ii)α-particle as well as thenucleus1.6.2 Theory of α-Particle Scattering ExperimentLet us explain α-particle scattering. Rutherford assumed that when an α-particle approachesthe positive nucleus, Coulomb’s repulsive force is given by-F =…..(1)Here, +Ze and +2e are the charges on nucleus and α-particle respectively and r is the distancebetween the nucleus and approaching α-particle..
