Distance of closest approach (head-on α on nucleus) (d_min = k (2e)(Ze) / Ek)
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d_min = k (2e)(Ze) / Ek
What each symbol means
| Symbol | What it stands for |
|---|---|
| Z | Target atomic number |
| e | Elementary charge (C) |
| k | 1/(4πε₀) (N·m²/C²) |
| E_k | Initial α kinetic energy (J) |
| d_min | Closest separation (m) |
When to use this
Point nuclei, non-relativistic, Coulomb only until d ~ nuclear size.