In the Geiger–Marsden (Rutherford) alpha particle scattering experiment, a thin gold foil is bombarded with alpha particles. It is observed that the vast majority of the alpha particles pass straight through the foil undeflected.
Which statement is the correct conclusion drawn specifically from this observation?
The nucleus of the atom contains all of the positive charge.
Almost all of the mass of the atom is concentrated in a tiny central region.
The atom consists mostly of empty space, with the nucleus occupying a very small fraction of the atomic volume.
The positive charge of the atom is distributed uniformly throughout its volume.
284 exam-style questions on CIE IGCSE Physics 5.1 The nuclear model of the atom, covering 5.1.1a Structure of the atom and ions, 5.1.1b Alpha-particle scattering, 5.1.2a Composition of the nucleus and isotopes, 5.1.2b Proton number, nucleon number and nuclide notation, and 5.1.2c Nuclear fission and nuclear fusion. Each one has a worked solution and a mark scheme showing where the marks go.