The Elastic Scattering of Electrons by Gold Nuclei

Abstract

The results of experiments with a Wilson Cloud Chamber on the elastic scattering of .2 - .9 Mev. electrons by a thin gold foil are reported and compared with theory. The results tend to confirm the Mott spin-orbital coupling theory in preference to the relativistic Rutherford results. However low statistical accuracy precludes definite choice between the theories. A review of previous experimental results is included together with some remarks on the scattering of positrons.