The structure of an atom

The discovery of two fundamental particles (electrons and protons) inside the atom, led to the failure of this aspect Dalton’s atomic theory. It was then considered necessary to know how electrons and protons are arranged within an atom. For example this, many scientists proposed various atomic models. J.J Thomson was the first one to propose a model for the structure of an atom.

Thomson’s Model Of An Atom

Thomson proposed the model of an atom to be similar to that of a Christmas pudding. The electrons, in a sphere of positive charge, were like currants (dry fruits) in a spherical Christmas pudding. A watermelon, the positive charge in the atom is spread all over like the red edible part of the watermelon, while the electrons are studded in the positively charged sphere, like the seeds in the watermelon.

Thomson proposed that:

• An atom consists of a positively charged sphere and the electrons are embedded in it.
• The negative and positive charges are equal in magnitude. So, the atom as a whole is electrically neutral.

Conclusion: Although Thomson’s model explained that atoms are electrically neutral, the results of experiments carried out by other scientists could not be explained by this model.