In the Rutherford scattering experiment, 3.30 MeV alpha particles (4He nuclei containing 2 protons and 2 neutrons) scatter off lead nuclei (containing 82 protons and 126 neutrons). Assume that a particular alpha particle makes a direct head-on collision with the lead nucleus and scatters backward at 180°. Assume that the lead nucleus remains fixed throughout the entire process.
(a) Determine the distance of closest approach of the alpha particle to the lead nucleus.
(b) Determine the maximum force exerted on the alpha particle.