In Rutherfords experiment, -particles were directed at a thin gold foil. A small fraction of the -particles

In Rutherford’s experiment, α-particles were directed at a thin gold foil. A small fraction of the α-particles were back-scattered through 180°. Describe and explain how the fraction back-scattered changes if each of the following changes are (separately) made.

a. A thicker foil is used.

b. Faster α-particles are used.

c. A silver foil is used – a silver nucleus has less positive charge than a gold nucleus.