Is there more than one possible model that could be inferred from Rutherfords data? (from his Gold Foil Experiment)?

Answer 1

Hi Jake Y.,

You didn't include the data. Did you examine it?

You have a scattering curve, along a particular function.

So the question is, would this trajectories distribution be consistent with any other nucleus model other than that proposed by Rutherford?

I think if you were to examine the trajectory of alpha-particles attracted vs. repelled by point nuclei, you would find equal deflections. Did Rutherford specify that nuclei were the same sign charge as alpha-particles?

That's one "angle", so to speak, on the data.

Of course, there was no assurance that the operating force was exactly proportional to the inverse-square of the particle-nucleus distance, for point nuclei and point alpha-particles. That was inferred, by "Occam's Razor" (it fit the data, and it is the simplest arrangement) -- and it wouldn't necessarily be true at very high alpha-particle velocities, such that they penetrate the nuclear barrier. (We assume there were no Maxwell's Demons sitting and batting at the particles, in such a way as to simulate an inverse-square force.)

--Cheers, --Mr. d.