Chapter 2: Problem 14
The electrons of Rutherford's model of the atom are expected to lose energy because they (1) are attracted by the nucleus (2) strike each other (3) are accelerated (4) are in motion
Short Answer
Expert verified
The electrons lose energy because they are accelerated.
Step by step solution
01
- Understand the Problem
The problem asks why electrons in Rutherford's model of the atom are expected to lose energy. Consider the behavior of electrons and the principles of physics that apply to them.
02
- Analyze Each Option
Evaluate each given option: electrons are attracted by the nucleus, strike each other, are accelerated, or are in motion. Determine which of these could cause energy loss.
03
- Examine Electromagnetic Radiation
According to classical physics, when charged particles like electrons are accelerated, they emit electromagnetic radiation, losing energy in the process.
04
- Identify the Correct Cause
As electrons revolve around the nucleus, they are constantly changing direction, which means they are accelerating. The continuous acceleration causes them to emit radiation and lose energy.
05
- Conclude
Because the continuous acceleration of electrons in Rutherford's model leads them to emit radiation, the correct answer is (3) are accelerated.
Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!
-
Full Textbook Solutions
Get detailed explanations and key concepts
-
Unlimited Al creation
Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...
-
Ads-free access
To over 500 millions flashcards
-
Money-back guarantee
We refund you if you fail your exam.
Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with Vaia!
Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
electron behavior
In Rutherford's model of the atom, electrons move around the nucleus in circular orbits. This behavior is similar to planets orbiting the sun. However, electrons are not just simple particles; they have unique properties:
- They have a negative charge.
- Their motion is influenced by the positive charge of the nucleus.
- In classical physics, accelerated electrons (those changing speed or direction) emit energy.
energy loss
Energy loss in Rutherford's model is tied directly to the motion of electrons. When charged particles like electrons are accelerated, they emit energy in the form of electromagnetic radiation. This emission of energy results in energy loss for the electrons. In a stable orbit, you would expect electrons to constantly lose energy, slow down, and eventually spiral into the nucleus.
- This continuous energy loss is due to the fact that they are being constantly pulled towards the nucleus while moving in an orbit.
- The expected result would be an atom imploding, which contradicts what we observe in reality.
electromagnetic radiation
Electromagnetic radiation is a form of energy emitted by accelerating charged particles. When electrons in Rutherford's model are moving around the nucleus, they are accelerating because their direction changes continuously. According to classical physics, this acceleration makes them emit electromagnetic radiation
- This radiation is a form of energy loss.
- It explains why accelerating electrons can't maintain constant energy levels in classical physics.
classical physics
Classical physics dealt with particles and waves using principles developed before quantum mechanics. According to classical physics, accelerating charges (like electrons in orbit) should emit electromagnetic radiation and lose energy. This was one of the main reasons Rutherford's model had limitations.
- Classical physics couldn't explain the stability of atoms:
- If electrons lost energy as predicted, they would spiral into the nucleus.
- This would make atoms collapse, contradicting everyday experiences and observations.