A radioactive source emits α\alphaα-, β\betaβ- and γ\gammaγ-radiation.
Which of these radiations:
has the greatest ionising power?
consists of high-energy electromagnetic waves?
is deflected towards the positive terminal in an electric field?
In a historic physics experiment, a beam of alpha particles was directed at a very thin gold foil inside a vacuum chamber.
Explain why it was essential for this experiment to be conducted in a vacuum rather than in air.
State two conclusions that were drawn from this experiment about the structure of the atomic nucleus.
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.