Graph of rutherford scattering

[quietrain]

Homework Statement

in rutherford scattering formula, N is proportional to (sin T/2)^-4
where T is the scattering angle, N is the count rate per min.

i have to find the relationship between N and T

so how do i get a straight line graph out of this relationship?

if i plot lg N vs lg T , since lg N= -4 lg (sinT/2) , i get y = -3.6x + 5.1 through my data ,
does this mean that the gradient of -3.6 is a reflection of the -4 power? since i didnt take into account the sin and 1/2 .

so should i be plotting lg N against lg (sinT/2) ? but if i do so, then i would be assuming that N takes on the form of (sin T/2)^-4 straight away.

thanks!

 

[jbsteele]

Homework EquationsN = (sin T/2)-4The Attempt at a SolutionYou should plot lg N vs lg (sinT/2). This is because the equation for N is N = (sin T/2)-4. Taking the log of both sides gives you lg N = -4 lg (sinT/2). This means that the slope of the line will be -4, which is a reflection of the power in the equation.