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A-LevelPhysicsNuclear physicsOct/Nov 2010Paper 1 Q381 Mark

In the Rutherford scattering experiment, α-particles were fired at a thin gold foil. A small proportion of the α-particles were deflected through large angles. Which statement gives the correct conclusion that could be drawn directly from these results?

AThe atom is made up of electrons, protons and neutrons.
BThe nucleus is at the centre of the atom.
CThe nucleus is made up of protons and neutrons.
DThe atom contains a very small, charged nucleus.

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The correct answer is D. This question tests the candidate's understanding of nuclear physics within the Physicssyllabus. The examiner's mark scheme requires...

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Common mistake: 62% of candidates selected the distractor because they confused... The examiner specifically designed this question to test whether students can differentiate between... To secure full marks, candidates must demonstrate...

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About This A-Level Physics Question

This multiple-choice question appeared in the Cambridge A-Level Physics (9702) Oct/Nov 2010 examination, Paper 1 Variant 2. It tests the topic of Nuclear physics and is worth 1 mark.

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