The evolution of atomic theory is marked by significant contributions from scientists like Cannizzaro, Mendeleev, and Rutherford. Cannizzaro corrected Berzelius's atomic weight errors, leading to a better understanding of molecular composition. Mendeleev's periodic table predicted elements and reinforced atomic theory. Rutherford's experiments led to the nuclear model of the atom, changing the concept of atomic structure.
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Berzelius' belief in single atom gases led to errors in chemical formulas
Cannizzaro's argument for diatomic molecules resolved discrepancies and advanced understanding of molecular composition
Some scientists dismissed atoms as theoretical constructs, but the periodic table and knowledge of molecular structure provided evidence for their existence
Isomerism, where compounds with identical formulas have different properties, posed a challenge to non-atomic theories
Pasteur's hypothesis that isomers have the same atoms arranged differently was a precursor to structural chemistry
Van 't Hoff's model explained the spatial arrangement of atoms in molecules, leading to the understanding of multiple isomers
Mendeleev's periodic table allowed for the prediction of undiscovered elements based on their properties
The periodic table reinforced the concept of valency and provided a systematic approach to understanding chemical reactivity
The periodic table aligned with Dalton's law of multiple proportions, further supporting the atomic theory
Brownian motion, observed by Robert Brown, provided evidence for the kinetic theory of gases
Einstein's explanation of Brownian motion as collisions with water molecules was confirmed by Jean Perrin's experiments
Statistical mechanics, based on the assumption of atomic and molecular existence, provided strong support for the atomic hypothesis
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The concept of ______ molecules, which could split into single atoms during reactions, was advocated by Cannizzaro to address the inconsistencies in earlier atomic theories.
diatomic
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19th-century atomic skepticism
Atoms' invisibility led to doubt about their existence; positivism influenced some scientists to dismiss atoms, favoring observable phenomena.
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Equivalent weights vs. atoms
Equivalent weights used for predicting reactions; atoms considered theoretical until molecular structure knowledge grew.
