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4.1 Atoms and isotopes

4.1 Atoms and isotopes

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Question 2

The plum pudding model of the atom was eventually replaced by the nuclear model following the landmark alpha particle scattering experiment.

Table 1 outlines three historical descriptions of atomic structure.

DescriptionLabel
A tiny, extremely dense, positively charged nucleus is situated at the centre, with negative electrons dispersed in the relatively vast empty space surrounding it.X
Electrons are confined to stable, non-radiating circular orbits (shells) at specific, quantized energy levels around a positive nucleus.Y
The atom is modeled as a solid sphere of positive charge containing tiny, negatively charged electrons embedded within it.Z
a.
  1. Which label (X, Y, or Z) describes the plum pudding model?
  2. What is the correct chronological order of these atomic models, from earliest to most recent?
[2]
b.

During an alpha particle scattering experiment, a beam of positively charged alpha particles is directed at a thin platinum foil (the nuclei of which are also positively charged).

Complete the following sentences. Choose your answers from the options below:

pulled toward, repelled by, increases, decreases, remains unchanged, stronger, weaker \text{pulled toward, } \text{repelled by, } \text{increases, } \text{decreases, } \text{remains unchanged, } \text{stronger, } \text{weaker} pulled toward, repelled by, increases, decreases, remains unchanged, stronger, weaker
  • Since both the alpha particle and the platinum nucleus possess positive charge, the alpha particle is ____________________ the platinum nucleus.
  • As the alpha particle approaches closer to the platinum nucleus, the electrostatic force experienced by the alpha particle ____________________.
  • If a lighter nucleus with a smaller positive charge (such as copper) were used instead of platinum, the electrostatic force of repulsion at any given distance would be ____________________.
[3]
c.

A researcher repeats the scattering measurements multiple times under identical conditions using the same apparatus, finding that the data points are highly consistent with one another.

Which term specifically describes measurements that yield consistent results when obtained by the same researcher using the same equipment and method?

  • Option A: Accurate
  • Option B: Precise
  • Option C: Repeatable
  • Option D: Reproducible
[1]
Markscheme

4.1 Atoms and isotopes Questions

  1. GCSE
  2. /Physics
  3. /4.1 Atoms and isotopes

3 exam-style questions on AQA GCSE Physics 4.1 Atoms and isotopes, covering 4.1.1 The structure of an atom, 4.1.2 Mass number, atomic number and isotopes, and 4.1.3 The development of the model of the atom (common content with chemistry). Each one has a worked solution and a mark scheme showing where the marks go.

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