Rutherford used a 5.5 MeV alpha particle. Calculate the de Broglie wavelength of these alpha particles. How does this compare to the size of the nucleus? What if he had only been able to get alpha particles with an energy of 1 keV { would he have been able to see this e ect?

Wavelength of alpha particle is m

The de broglie wavelength of 1keV is 451 times larger than size of nucleus.

Explanation:

Given:

Energy of alpha particle MeV

De broglie wavelength corresponding the energy of alpha particle is given by,

Where Js, , kg

   m

Hence, wavelength of alpha particle is m

Size of nucleus is ≅ m

Now wavelength of 1 keV is given by,

  m

Here, ≅ 451

Therefore, the de broglie wavelength of 1keV is 451 times larger than size of nucleus.

The material will still remain afloat.

Explanation:

The fact that the material floated on water as a solid piece means that the material is less dense than water. When a material is less dense than another liquid material, the material floats in the denser material. Cutting holes in the material will not reduce the buoyancy of the material. If the material had not floated as a single solid piece, then it will be said to be denser than the liquid material, and in such a case, if a strategic hole is cut on it to reduce its weight while maintaining its immediate volume, then it can be made to float. This is the principle behind metal floating ships.