Study of Rutherford Scattering Cross Section via Geant4 Methods

Abstract

The measurement of alpha scattering from gold was instrumental in developing the model of an atom. Rutherford was able to verify this model by predicting the number of particles scattering at each angle. The Rutherford scattering cross sections were studied using the Geant4 (Geometry and tracking) software. Most of the results from the simulation were found to correspond with the data calculated using the Rutherford scattering formula. The trajectories of alpha particles produced during the reaction could be visualized through the simulation. This research showed that Geant4 can simulate accurately the scattering of charged particles from materials. Moreover, Geant4 can be applied in the simulation of the scattering of other particles from different materials in an elastic collision. The simulation by Geant4 is also beneficial in the physics laboratory since it can assist students in their understanding of Rutherford’s alpha scattering experiments and avoid any unnecessary exposure to radioactive substances.