Which of the following statements is part of Dalton's atomic theory?

• A. Electrons orbit the nucleus in fixed paths.
• B. Atoms can be created or destroyed in chemical reactions.
• C. Atoms of different elements have identical properties.
• D. All matter is composed of indivisible atoms.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that Dalton's atomic theory was an early model explaining the nature of atoms and matter, proposed in the early 19th century.
2. Review the key postulates of Dalton's atomic theory, which include: (1) All matter is made of indivisible atoms, (2) Atoms of a given element are identical in mass and properties, (3) Atoms cannot be created or destroyed in chemical reactions, and (4) Compounds are formed by combinations of atoms in fixed ratios.
3. Analyze each statement given in the problem and compare it to Dalton's postulates: For example, 'Electrons orbit the nucleus in fixed paths' is from the Bohr model, not Dalton's theory.
4. Identify that 'Atoms can be created or destroyed in chemical reactions' contradicts Dalton's theory, which states atoms are indivisible and conserved in reactions.
5. Conclude that the statement 'All matter is composed of indivisible atoms' aligns directly with Dalton's atomic theory.