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We learned about carbon-12 and carbon-14.
Consider hydrogen-1, hydrogen-2, and hydrogen-3. Compare and contrast them, using data.
The 'Democritus' atom...Ernst Rutherford put it to the test.
In 1911, Ernst Rutherford proved the existence of the nucleus, and that ushered in what is now called nuclear chemistry. Just over thirty short years later the first atomic bomb would be developed. That's an incredibly quick advancement in scientific understanding!
Today we will do an experiment that is analogous (like, but not the same) to Rutherford's most unlikely experiment. In this, like Rutherford, we will launch an object at a target and will analyze the results of any "interactions." Our object will be a golf ball. Our target will be a section of driveway with specific areas (circles) that represent a potential nucleus. Every time our golf ball hits inside one of the circles, that is a positive result. Every time it hits outside of a circle that is a negative result. We should be able to figure out the percentage chance of striking a "nucleus" and then calculate the diameter of one nucleus.
Suggestions:
How many times will you toss the golf ball to get enough data that you can be confident in your results?
Knowing the area of your entire target is helpful. DO NOT measure any of the nuclei.
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