How does Rutherford's model of the atom differ from Thomson's model?

• A. Rutherford's model states that atoms are indivisible, while Thomson's model allows for the existence of subatomic particles.
• B. Rutherford's model suggests that electrons are embedded in a positively charged sphere, whereas Thomson's model proposes that electrons orbit a central nucleus.
• C. Rutherford's model describes the atom as having a small, dense, positively charged nucleus with electrons orbiting around it, while Thomson's model depicts the atom as a uniform sphere of positive charge with electrons embedded within it.
• D. Both Rutherford's and Thomson's models describe the atom as a solid sphere with no internal structure.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand Thomson's model, also known as the 'plum pudding' model, which describes the atom as a uniform positively charged sphere with negatively charged electrons embedded within it, like 'plums' in a 'pudding'.
2. Step 2: Recognize that Thomson's model does not include a nucleus; instead, the positive charge is spread out evenly throughout the atom.
3. Step 3: Learn about Rutherford's model, which was developed after the gold foil experiment, showing that the atom has a small, dense, positively charged nucleus at its center.
4. Step 4: Note that in Rutherford's model, electrons orbit this central nucleus, similar to planets orbiting the sun, rather than being embedded in a diffuse positive charge.
5. Step 5: Compare the two models by highlighting that Thomson's model depicts a diffuse positive charge with embedded electrons, while Rutherford's model introduces a concentrated nucleus with electrons orbiting around it, fundamentally changing the understanding of atomic structure.