Atoms: Rutherfords Model of the Atom

In 1911, Ernest Rutherford revised the atomic theory by conducting the gold foil experiment, where he fired positively charged particles at gold foil. Most particles passed through, indicating atoms have empty space, contradicting Thomson's solid atom model. Some particles bounced back, leading Rutherford to conclude that atoms have a small, dense, positively charged nucleus. He proposed that electrons are scattered around this nucleus, forming the basis of his atomic model.

What was the main observation Rutherford made when he fired particles at the gold foil?

• All particles were absorbed by the foil.

• Most particles passed through the foil.

• All particles bounced back.

• The foil emitted light.

What did Rutherford's experiment suggest about the structure of the atom?

• Atoms are solid throughout.

• Atoms are mostly empty space.

• Atoms are made of liquid.

• Atoms are flexible.

How did Rutherford's findings challenge Thomson's atomic model?

• By suggesting atoms are solid.

• By proposing atoms have a dense center.

• By proving atoms are flexible.

• By showing atoms are made of water.

What did Rutherford name the dense center of the atom?

• Neutron

• Electron

• Proton

• Nucleus

According to Rutherford, where are the negatively charged electrons located?

• Inside the nucleus

• In the dense center

• Scattered outside the nucleus

• In the gold foil