Development of the Atomic Model
Sequencing Cards
Cut out the cards and arrange them in the correct order to show how ideas about atoms
have developed over time.
Theory
The plum pudding model is developed. It describes atoms
as a mass of positive charge, with negative electrons
embedded within it.
−
−
Theory −
−
Scientists conclude that atoms contain a positive mass in −
+
the centre of the atom. The positive centre is named the
nucleus. −
−
−
Discovery
In the alpha particle scattering experiment, a beam of
positive alpha particles is fired at a thin layer of gold foil.
The alpha particles emerge at different angles.
(Rutherford, Geiger and Marsden)
− − −
Discovery − −
Experiments show that the positive charge of the nucleus ++ +
− − + ++ + − −
+++
is made up of a number of smaller, positively charged
particles. These particles are called protons. − −
− − −
Development of the Atomic Model Sequencing Cards
− − −
Theory
− −
The nuclear model is adapted to suggest that electrons
− − + − −
orbit the nucleus at specific distances.
− −
(Bohr)
− − −
− − −
Discovery
− −
The existence of neutrons within the nucleus is +
++ +
− − + ++ − −
discovered. +
− −
(Chadwick)
− − −
Discovery
The existence of electrons is discovered. This is evidence
that atoms can be divided into subatomic particles.
e-
(Thomson)
Theory
Atoms are thought to be tiny solid spheres that are
indivisible.
(Dalton)
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