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Nuclear Radius

Q5.

(a) On the graph paper below sketch a graph to show how the radius, R, of a nucleus varies with its nucleon number, A.

(1 mark)

(b) The radius of a gold-197 nucleus is 6.87 × 10–15 m.

(i) Show that the density of this nucleus is about 2.4 × 1017 kg m–3.

(2 marks)

(ii) Using the data from part b(i) calculate the radius of an aluminium-27 nucleus, .

(2 marks)

(c) Nuclear radii have been investigated using α particles in Rutherford scattering experiments and by using electrons in diffraction experiments.

Make comparisons between these two methods of estimating the radius of a nucleus. Detail of any apparatus used is not required.

For each method your answer should contain:

the principles on which each experiment is based including a reference to an appropriate equation

an explanation of what may limit the accuracy of each method

a discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of each method

The quality of your written communication will be assessed in your answer.

(6 marks)

(Total 11 marks)