Rutherford’s Atom Model

On the basis of the results of -scattering experiment, Rutherford suggested the following picture of the atom:

Ø Atom may be regarded as a sphere of diameter m but whole of the positive charge and almost the entire mass of the atom is concentrated in a small central core called nucleus having diameter of about m.

Ø The nucleus is surrounded by electrons. In other words, the electrons are spread over the remaining part of the atom leaving plenty of empty space in the atom.

Drawbacks of Rutherford’s Atom Model

Ø When the electrons revolve round the nucleus, they are continuously accelerated towards the centre of the nucleus. According to Lorentz, an accelerated charged particle should radiate energy continuously. Therefore, in the atom, a revolving electron should continuously emit energy and hence the radius of its path should go on decreasing and ultimately it should fall into the nucleus. However, electrons revolve round the nucleus without falling into it. Therefore, Rutherford’s atom model cannot explain the stability of the atom.

Ø If the Rutherford’s atom model is true, the electron can revolve in orbits of all possible radii and hence it should emit continuous energy spectrum. However, the atoms like hydrogen possess line spectrum.

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