Class XI Chemistry - Chapter 2: Structure of Atom
(Very Detailed Summary with Important Q&A;)
Introduction:
This chapter explains the structure of an atom, discovery of subatomic particles, atomic models,
dual nature of matter, quantum mechanical model, and rules of electronic configuration.
1. Discovery of Subatomic Particles
Electron: Discovered by J.J. Thomson using Cathode Ray Tube experiment.
Charge: -1.602 × 10■¹■ C, Mass: 9.1 × 10■³¹ kg.
Proton: Discovered by Goldstein using Canal Rays. Charge: +1.602 × 10■¹■ C.
Neutron: Discovered by Chadwick (1932). Mass: ≈ 1 amu.
Experiments:
- Millikan Oil Drop: Determined electron charge.
- Thomson: e/m = 1.76 × 10¹¹ C/kg.
2. Atomic Models
(i) Thomson's Model: Positive sphere with electrons embedded ('Plum pudding'). Failed to explain
experiments.
(ii) Rutherford's Model: From alpha particle scattering:
- Nucleus small and dense, positive.
- Electrons revolve around nucleus.
Limitations: Could not explain stability and discrete spectra.
(iii) Bohr's Model:
- Electrons revolve in quantized orbits.
- Angular momentum: mvr = nh/2π.
- Energy: E■ = -13.6 Z² / n² eV.
- ∆E = hν during transition.
Diagram: (Bohr model)
3. Dual Nature of Matter & Quantum Mechanical Model
de Broglie: λ = h/mv.
Heisenberg Uncertainty: ∆x·∆p ≥ h/4π.
Schrödinger Equation: Predicts orbitals (regions of probability), not orbits.
Orbitals: Defined by quantum numbers.
Diagram: s, p, d orbitals shapes.
4. Quantum Numbers
- Principal (n): Size & energy.
- Azimuthal (l): Shape of orbital (0=s,1=p,2=d,3=f).
- Magnetic (m): Orientation (-l to +l).
- Spin (s): ±1/2.
Total orbitals: n²; Total electrons: 2n².
Diagram: Energy level diagram.
5. Electronic Configuration Rules
- Aufbau Principle: Fill orbitals in increasing energy order.
- Pauli Exclusion Principle.
- Hund's Rule of Maximum Multiplicity.
Example: O (Z=8): 1s² 2s² 2p■.
Tip: Use (n+l) rule for order.
6. Important Formulas & Constants
- E = -13.6 Z² / n² eV.
- λ = h / mv.
- ν = ∆E / h.
Constants: h = 6.626 × 10■³■ Js, c = 3 × 10■ m/s.
7. Important NCERT Questions & Answers
Q1: Calculate energy of electron in 2nd orbit of H.
A: E = -13.6 / n² = -13.6 / 4 = -3.4 eV.
Q2: Write quantum numbers for last electron of chlorine (Z=17).
A: n=3, l=1, m=-1, s=-1/2.
Q3: Calculate wavelength of electron moving at 1×10■ m/s.
A: λ = h/mv ≈ 7.3×10■¹¹ m.
8. Quick Revision Table
Model Key Feature
Thomson Positive sphere with electrons
Rutherford Nucleus + electrons in orbit
Bohr Quantized energy levels
