Question Constellation Sign up for free AQA · GCSE · Physics · Higher
Composition of an Alpha Particle
Last century, scientists used evidence from the alpha particle scattering experiment to develop a new model of the atom. In the experiment, alpha particles were directed towards a piece of gold foil.
What does an alpha particle consist of?
Write your answer first. You can study the marking guidance whenever you need it.
Study the marking See what earns credit and compare it with a full-mark answer.
Marking points
- 1 States that an alpha particle contains two protons and two neutrons.
Full-mark answer
Two protons and two neutrons.
Why this answer loses marks
A helium nucleus.
The official mark scheme ignores “helium nucleus” on its own; state the composition as two protons and two neutrons.