Unit 2: Structure of Atom - Lecture Vocabulary

A set of vocabulary flashcards based on the introductory lecture notes for the unit on atomic structure, covering early philosophical ideas, Dalton's atomic theory, and the identification of sub-atomic particles.

a-tomio

The Greek word from which 'atom' is derived, meaning 'uncut-able' or 'non-divisible'.

John Dalton

A British school teacher who in 1808 first proposed the atomic theory of matter on a firm scientific basis.

Dalton’s atomic theory

A theory that regarded the atom as the ultimate particle of matter.

400 B.C.

The approximate time when early Indian and Greek philosophers proposed that atoms are the fundamental building blocks of matter.

Sub-atomic particles

The fundamental constituents of atoms, identified as electrons, protons, and neutrons.

Laws explained by Dalton's theory

The law of conservation of mass, law of constant composition, and law of multiple proportion.

Limitation of Dalton’s atomic theory

It failed to explain why substances like glass or ebonite get electrically charged when rubbed with silk or fur.

Fundamental building blocks of matter

The Indian and Greek philosophers' view of atoms, suggesting that continued subdivisions of matter would ultimately yield indivisible particles.