Scattering: Collisions in 2D and 3D
The Main Idea
State, in your own words, the main idea for this topic "Scattering experiments are used to study the structure and behavior of atoms, nuclei, and other small particles. In a scattering experiment, a beam of particles collides with other particles. In atomic or nuclear collisions, we can’t observe in detail the curving trajectories inside the tiny interaction region. We only observe the trajectories before and after the collision, when the particles are far apart and their mutual interaction is very weak, so they are traveling in nearly straight lines. An example of scattering is the collision of an alpha particle (helium nucleus) with the nucleus of a gold atom."
A Mathematical Model
What are the mathematical equations that allow us to model this topic. For example [math]\displaystyle{ {\frac{d\vec{p}}{dt}}_{system} = \vec{F}_{net} }[/math] where p is the momentum of the system and F is the net force from the surroundings.
A Computational Model
How do we visualize or predict using this topic. Consider embedding some vpython code here Teach hands-on with GlowScript
Examples
Be sure to show all steps in your solution and include diagrams whenever possible
Simple
Middling
Difficult
Connectedness
- How is this topic connected to something that you are interested in?
- How is it connected to your major?
- Is there an interesting industrial application?
History
Put this idea in historical context. Give the reader the Who, What, When, Where, and Why.
See also
Are there related topics or categories in this wiki resource for the curious reader to explore? How does this topic fit into that context?
Further reading
Matter and Interactions, Volume I: Modern Mechanics, 4th Edition. (Chapter 10.6)
External links
References
Chabay, Ruth W., Bruce Sherwood. Matter and Interactions, Volume I: Modern Mechanics, 4th Edition. Wiley, 19/2014.