Historical developments in atomic physics led to several distinct models of atomic structure. Match each atomic model on the left with its defining structural feature or experimental basis on the right.
- Thomson's ModelTreats electrons as embedded within a continuous sphere of positive electric charge.
- Rutherford's ModelProposes a tiny, dense positive nucleus based on large-angle alpha particle scattering.
- Bohr's ModelPostulates discrete, non-radiating electron orbits with quantized angular momentum.
- Quantum Mechanical ModelDescribes electron locations using three-dimensional probability distributions (orbitals).
Answer
Thomson's Model matches with embedded electrons in a positive sphere; Rutherford's Model matches with a dense positive nucleus from alpha scattering; Bohr's Model matches with quantized non-radiating orbits; Quantum Mechanical Model matches with electron probability orbitals.
Each historical atomic model is correctly matched to its fundamental feature: Thomson proposed electrons suspended in positive mass; Rutherford used alpha scattering to discover the compact nucleus; Bohr quantized electron orbits to explain spectral lines; and the Quantum Mechanical Model represents electrons via three-dimensional probability orbitals.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Evolution of Atomic Models