chemistry for health sciences Related

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If the Thomson model of the atom had been correct, Rutherford would have observed:

  • A. Alpha particles going through the foil with little or no deflection.
  • B. Alpha particles greatly deflected by the metal foil.
  • C. Alpha particles bouncing off the foil.
  • D. Positive particles formed in the foil.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Alpha particles greatly deflected by the metal foil. In the Thomson model, the atom was thought to be a uniform, positively charged sphere. If this model had been correct, alpha particles would have passed through the foil with little or no deflection. However, Rutherford observed significant deflections, indicating a concentrated positive charge at the center (nucleus). This aligns with the concept of the Rutherford model of the atom. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not correspond to the experimental observations made by Rutherford.