Introduction to
Atomic Models
Atomic models have evolved over time, with each iteration trying to
explain the atom's structure and behavior. Early models, such as the plum
pudding model, were based on limited experimental data and were later
found to be inadequate.
Drawbacks of the Plum Pudding Model
The plum pudding model, proposed by J.J. Thomson, envisioned the atom as a sphere of positive charge with
electrons embedded throughout.
1 Lack of Experimental 2 No Explanation for 3 Incorrect Distribution
Support Atomic Spectra of Charge
This model failed to explain It could not explain the The plum pudding model
the results of Rutherford's specific wavelengths of light assumed that the positive
gold foil experiment, which emitted by atoms when charge was evenly distributed
showed that most alpha heated, suggesting that throughout the atom.
particles passed straight electrons occupy specific Rutherford's experiment
through the gold foil, energy levels. showed that the positive
indicating that the positive charge is concentrated in a
charge was concentrated in a small nucleus.
small nucleus.
Drawbacks of the Rutherford Model
Rutherford's model proposed a nucleus containing protons, with electrons orbiting around it. This model explained
the results of the gold foil experiment, but it had shortcomings.
Classical Physics Failure No Explanation for Atomic Incorrect Electron
Spectra Distribution
Classical physics predicts that an
orbiting electron should radiate The Rutherford model could not The model did not specify the
energy and spiral into the nucleus, explain why atoms emit specific arrangement or energy levels of
causing the atom to collapse. This wavelengths of light when excited. the electrons, failing to explain the
didn't happen. stability and reactivity of atoms.
Drawbacks of the Bohr
Model
Bohr's model addressed some of Rutherford's model's limitations by
introducing quantized electron orbits, but it still faced challenges.
Limited Applicability
1 The model works well for hydrogen but fails to accurately
predict the spectra of atoms with multiple electrons.
No Explanation for Electron Spin
2 It did not account for the intrinsic angular momentum of
electrons, known as spin.
No Explanation for Chemical Bonding
3 The Bohr model did not provide a satisfactory explanation
for how atoms bond to form molecules.
Challenges in Explaining
Atomic Structure and
Behavior
Even with the success of the Bohr model, many mysteries about the
atom remained.
Electron Interactions Electrons in multi-electron
atoms interact with each other,
making their behavior more
complex and difficult to predict.
Nuclear Structure The structure of the nucleus
itself is complex, involving
protons and neutrons, and the
strong nuclear force that binds
them together.
