What was the Rutherford model?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the Rutherford model, which is a scientific theory describing the structure of an atom based on Ernest Rutherford's experiments. It emphasizes the nucleus's role and the arrangement of electrons around it.
Answer
The Rutherford model describes the atom with a tiny, positively charged nucleus and orbiting electrons.
The Rutherford model describes the atom as having a tiny, positively charged nucleus at its center, with negatively charged electrons orbiting around it.
Answer for screen readers
The Rutherford model describes the atom as having a tiny, positively charged nucleus at its center, with negatively charged electrons orbiting around it.
More Information
Rutherford’s model was revolutionary because it replaced the earlier plum pudding model, which posited that the atom was a uniform sphere of positively charged matter with embedded electrons.
Tips
A common mistake is to confuse Rutherford's model with the Bohr model. While both describe a nucleus and orbiting electrons, the Bohr model adds specific energy levels for the electrons.
Sources
- Rutherford model - Wikipedia - en.wikipedia.org
- The Rutherford Model of An Atom - Britannica - britannica.com
- Rutherford's Model of An Atom - BYJU's - byjus.com
