Rutherford's Atomic Model and Deductions

Vocabulary terms based on Rutherford's deductions, the planetary model of the atom, and its drawbacks in classical physics.

Mostly Empty Space (Atomic Structure)

A deduction made by Rutherford because most alpha particles passed directly through the foil with zero resistance.

Positive Nucleus

A heavy, concentrated, positively charged core at the center of the atom that caused the deflection of some alpha particles.

Highly Negligible Volume

The characteristic of the nucleus indicating it occupies a very small space compared to the total size of the atom, concluded because very few alpha particles were deflected.

Nuclear or Planetary Model

Rutherford’s proposed model which states electrons revolve around a positively charged nucleus in fixed circular paths or orbits, much like planets orbiting the sun.

Electrically Neutral

The condition of an atom where the number of positive protons in the nucleus is exactly equal to the number of negative electrons orbiting it.

Electromagnetic Theory (Drawback)

A law of classical physics stating any charged particle revolving in a circular orbit will constantly radiate and lose energy, suggesting atoms should be unstable.

Atomic Collapse

The predicted outcome of the Rutherford model if electrons were to spiral into the nucleus due to energy loss from radiation.

Niels Bohr's Atomic Model

The atomic model that later fixed the major instability limitation found in Rutherford's planetary model.