13.2.1 & 13.2.2 Nuclear Physics

13.2.1 Explain how the radii of nuclei may be estimated from charged particle scattering experiments.

In charged particle scattering experiments, the particle that is repelled straight back will initially be momentarily at rest before it changes direction to travel straight back. Rutherford thus proposed that this fact can be used to estimate the size of the nucleus. This is because at that point at which the particle is at rest, its kinetic energy will be exactly balanced by its electrical potential energy due to the repulsive electrostatic force. 

13.2.2. Describe how the masses of nuclei may be determined using a Bainbridge mass spectrometer.

A magnetic field is used to deflect moving ions of a substance. If the ions have the same charge they will have the same velocity, v. The radius of their circular path however depends on the mass of the ion. A larger mass ion will travel in a larger circle. Therefore, the masses of nuclei may be determined using a Bainbridge mass spectrometer.