Rutherfords experiments , which established the nuclear model of atom , used a beam of:-

Options

A. `beta-`particle, which impinged on a metal foil and got absorbed
B. `gamma` - rays, which impinged on a metal foil and got scattered
C. helium atoms, which impinged on a metal foil and got scattered
D. helium nuclei, which impinged on a metal foil and got scattered

Explanation

To solve the question regarding Rutherford's experiments that established the nuclear model of the atom, we need to identify the type of beam used in these experiments. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the solution:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Rutherford's Experiment**:
- Rutherford conducted an experiment where he directed a beam towards a very thin gold foil. This experiment was crucial in developing the nuclear model of the atom.

2. **Identifying the Beam Used**:
- The beam that Rutherford used consisted of alpha particles. Alpha particles are essentially helium nuclei, which consist of two protons and two neutrons.

3. **Behavior of Alpha Particles**:
- When these alpha particles were directed at the gold foil, they exhibited different behaviors: some particles passed straight through, some were deflected at various angles, and a few were reflected back. This scattering provided evidence for the existence of a dense nucleus within the atom.

4. **Conclusion**:
- Based on the above observations, we conclude that the beam used in Rutherford's experiments was a beam of alpha particles (helium nuclei).

### Final Answer:
Rutherford's experiments used a beam of **alpha particles**.

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