Rutherford's scattering experiment is related to the size of the

Options

A. nucleus
B. Atom
C. Electron
D. Neutrons

Explanation

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Rutherford's Experiment**: Rutherford conducted an experiment where he fired alpha particles at a thin foil of gold. The behavior of these particles as they passed through or were deflected by the foil provided crucial insights into atomic structure.

2. **Nature of Alpha Particles**: Alpha particles are positively charged. When they approach a positively charged region, they experience a repulsive force due to like charges (both the alpha particles and the nucleus are positively charged).

3. **Observation of Scattering**: Most of the alpha particles passed straight through the foil, but a small fraction were deflected at large angles. This indicated that there was a concentrated positive charge within the atom that was causing the deflection.

4. **Conclusion About Atomic Structure**: From the scattering pattern, Rutherford concluded that the atom consists mostly of empty space, with a small, dense, positively charged center, which he termed the nucleus.

5. **Determining the Size**: The extent to which the alpha particles were deflected allowed Rutherford to estimate the size of the nucleus. He found that the nucleus is very small compared to the overall size of the atom.

6. **Final Answer**: Therefore, Rutherford's scattering experiment is related to the size of the nucleus.

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