Question

What are the limitations of Rutherford's model of the atom ?

Explain in brief.

Answer 1

$\huge\mathfrak{Answer:}$

The major limitation of Rutherford's model of the atom is that it does not explain the stability of the atom.

This will become clear from the following discussion.

• In Rutherford's model of the atom, the negatively charged electrons are revolving around the positively charged nucleus in circular paths.

• Since the direction of motion of electrons moving in circular paths changes continuously, therefore, the motion of electrons moving around the nucleus is accelerated.

• Now, according to the electromagnetic theory of physics, the charged electrons undergoing accelerated motion around the nucleus will lose their energy continously by radiation.

• The speed of electrons will, therefore, go on decreasing, they will be attracted more strongly by the oppositely charged nucleus, they will come more and more close to the nucleus and ultimately fall into the nucleus by taking a spiral path.

• This should make the atoms very unstable due to which the atoms should collapse quickly. This, however, does not happen.

• The electrons do not fall into the nucleus, atoms are very stable and do not collapse on their own.

=> The Rutherford's model, however, does not explain this stability of an atom.

______________________

HOPE IT HELPS ❤❤

Answer 2

• In Rutherford's model of the atom, the negatively charged electrons are revolving around the positively charged nucleus in circular paths.

• Since the direction of motion of electrons moving in circular paths changes continuously, therefore, the motion of electrons moving around the nucleus is accelerated.

• Now, according to the electromagnetic theory of physics, the charged electrons undergoing accelerated motion around the nucleus will lose their energy continously by radiation.

• The speed of electrons will, therefore, go on decreasing, they will be attracted more strongly by the oppositely charged nucleus, they will come more and more close to the nucleus and ultimately fall into the nucleus by taking a spiral path.

• This should make the atoms very unstable due to which the atoms should collapse quickly. This, however, does not happen.

• The electrons do not fall into the nucleus, atoms are very stable and do not collapse on their own.

=> The Rutherford's model, however, does not explain this stability of an atom.