The particle used by Rutherford in `alpha`-ray scat­tering experiment was

Options

A. neutron
B. electron
C. helium nucleus
D. X rays

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Experiment**: The question asks about the particle used in Rutherford's alpha-ray scattering experiment. This experiment was pivotal in the discovery of the atomic nucleus.

2. **Identifying the Particle**: In the alpha-ray scattering experiment, Rutherford used alpha particles. These are a type of nuclear particle.

3. **Defining Alpha Particles**: Alpha particles are essentially helium nuclei. They consist of two protons and two neutrons, making them positively charged.

4. **Chemical Notation**: The alpha particle can be represented in chemical notation as \( \text{He}^{2+} \), indicating that it is a doubly ionized helium atom.

5. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the particle used by Rutherford in his alpha-ray scattering experiment was the alpha particle, which is the helium nucleus.

**Final Answer**: The particle used by Rutherford in the alpha-ray scattering experiment was the alpha particle (He²⁺).

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