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Compare all the proposed models of an atom given in this chapter. - Science
Question
Compare all the proposed models of an atom given in this chapter.
Answer
The comparison of the three models of the atom:
| Feature | J.J. Thomson’s Model | Rutherford’s Model | Bohr’s Model |
| Structure | A sphere of positive charge with electrons embedded in it (like seeds in a watermelon). | A very small, positively charged nucleus is at the center, and electrons revolve around it in circular orbits. | Electrons revolve around the nucleus only in certain discrete orbits (special shells). |
| Nucleus | Did not propose the existence of a central nucleus. | Discovered the nucleus. | Accepted the existence of the nucleus. |
| Stability | Could not explain the results of scattering experiments. | Could not explain the stability of the atom (electrons would radiate energy and collapse). | Successfully explained stability: Electrons do not radiate energy while revolving in discrete orbits. |
| Energy Levels | No concept of shells/energy levels. | Orbits were not well defined. | Defined discrete energy levels (Shells K, L, M, N). |