Answer
The distance of closest approach to the nuclear center in the Rutherford experiment was about $30\;fm$. In the previous section of this problem, we have calculated that the de Broglie wavelength of the alpha particle is $5.236\;fm$. Thus, the de Broglie wavelength is less than the closest approach. Therefore, it is not necessary to take into account the wave nature of the incident alpha particles in interpreting these experiments.
Work Step by Step
The distance of closest approach to the nuclear center in the Rutherford experiment was about $30\;fm$. In the previous section of this problem, we have calculated that the de Broglie wavelength of the alpha particle is $5.236\;fm$. Thus, the de Broglie wavelength is less than the closest approach. Therefore, it is not necessary to take into account the wave nature of the incident alpha particles in interpreting these experiments.
