Scatterer

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Explaining Scattering

The idea of the atom originated in Ancient Greece, where philosophers named the smallest building blocks of matter atoms. They believed that these were indivisible, solid particles and that differences in atomic shape and size gave rise to the different properties of matter. However, as experiments advanced, our understanding of the atom also developed.

In the video below, Kayleigh Gates and Abby-Rhian Powell from the University of Glasgow explain how our models for the atom developed over time, and how the same technique of scattering is still used in cutting-edge experiments today.

Rather than firing beams of high-energy particles at a target, we can release ball bearings to impact stationary targets of different shapes and sizes. This gives us insight on the internal structure of a nucleus.

This scatterer demonstrates the principles behind the famous Rutherford Gold Leaf experiment that discovered the structure of the atom, and can also be used to discuss cutting-edge research such as that taking place at CERN

Learn more about the scatterer in the video below by Kayleigh Gates, a nuclear researcher from the University of Glasgow.

Using the Scatterer

The loan kit contains the 3D printed parts to construct a simplified model of a particle scatterer:

Scatterer Structure Edges x8
Targets x8
Target slots x2
Ramps x3
Ridged Track x1
Ramp Holder x1
Ball Bearing Holders x2
Stopper x1
Ball Bearings x1 pack

Putting the Scatterer Together

You want to start by putting together the outer edges of the scatterer. There are six identical pieces, and then two pieces that form a gap, (for where the ball bearings are loaded).

Each "bin" of the scatterer is labelled 0 through to 31, so connect the pieces together such that these are in order. The magnets will easily clip each piece together.

Next, in the hexagonal ring in the centre, place of the target slots - the ring that holds the target, (this allows for a consistent placing of the angle of the target). The structure of the scatterer is now set up.

We have a segmented piece that holds the ramp in a consistent location. You also have three different heights of ramps, which affects the speed of the ball bearings.

The final part of setting up our "experiment" is selecting the shape and size of the target we wish to investigate. Choose one of the eight targets and place it in the central slot.

We now need to prepare the "energetic particles" - the ball bearings. There is a serrated piece that fits onto the end of the ramp and a small piece that acts as a stopper. Load the ball bearings, release, and tabulate the data!

Analysing the Data

Now we've collected the data, it's time to analyse it. For analysing data from the model scatterer (32 bins) or the scattering simulation (64 bins), you can use the pre-configured Google sheets file below:

Scattering Experiments - Analysis

You will only be able to view this spreadsheet, so you must download the document, or make a copy.

Teaching Material

Pre-16 Masterclass

Module 1: Building Blocks of the Universe

Scattering experiments are important for understanding the structure of the atom, as well as quarks inside of hadrons! The scatterer gives an insight into this, and can be used alongside the PHET interactive simulation, (information at the bottom of the page).

Post-16 Masterclass

Module 2: Experimental Nuclear Physics

Data analysis and statistics are a huge part of every discovery in science. You can analyse data from the scattering experiment similar to the kind of analysis done by scientists every day. Information on this data analysis can be found at the bottom of the page.

Class Worksheets

You will want to collect data with your model scatterer or the simulation for your students to analyse. You can also use the example data in the spreadsheet below, collected using the Full Scattering Simulation, (that you can find at the bottom of the page). You can then have the students work through the data analysis instructions, either in Google Sheets/Excel, or in Python (if there is anyone with an interest in coding). There is a complete version of this task for teachers too:

Isaac Physics Questions

You can find some Isaac Physics questions you can set to your students related to scattering below. Please feel free to look at our page for help setting up an account on Isaac Physics!

Pre-16 Level

Scattering and the Structure of the Atom

Post-16 Level

Useful Links

PHET Interactive Simulation

Use the PHET interactive simulation of Rutherford Scattering to investigate the plum pudding and Rutherford models of the atom:

Start by looking at the plum pudding model of the atom. What do you notice about the path of the alpha particles through the atom? Is this what was observed in Rutherford's experiment?
Now look at Rutherford's model of the atom. What do you notice about the paths of the alpha particles in this case? You can change between a single nucleus and multiple atoms using the icons in the top right corner of the screen.
What do you notice about the alpha particle's behaviour if you vary the number of protons in the nucleus?
What do you notice about the alpha particle's behaviour if you vary the number of neutrons in the nucleus?

Full Scattering Simulation

You can download and run the full Scattering Simulation. This will allow you to view the scattering experiment for a range of different target shapes, as well as varying the ramp angle (and thus the energy of the ball bearings).

Please note that this software is only suitable for Windows computers.

Download the .zip file..
Unzip the file contents.
Double-click on the file titled 'Scattering_Game.blend1' within the 'game' folder and follow the instructions to install it.
Once installed, click 'Controls' to learn how to play the game, and then 'Play Game' to start. Use the up and down arrows on your keyboard to change the ramp angle. Use A and D to move left and right, and S and W to zoom in and out. To select the circular target, press z and to select the triangular target, press x. Place the ball bearings on the ramp by pressing 2 and release them by pressing the space bar. You should now be able to observe the scattering process.
Keep repeating this with different combinations - you will need to exit the game to reset the simulation.

University of Glasgow Resources

The University of Glasgow has put together many resources on scattering experiments, and how to explore the concepts in lessons. Feel free to have a look at some of their documents below on how to teach scattering to your classes.

Print your own

3D-print File

You can print out your own version of the scatterer! Download the files for the 3D print below:

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