What is the main difference between the Schrödinger model and the Bohr atomic model?

• A. The Bohr model describes electrons in fixed circular orbits, while the Schrödinger model describes electrons as probability clouds (orbitals).
• B. The Bohr model allows for electron spin, while the Schrödinger model does not.
• C. The Schrödinger model only applies to hydrogen atoms, while the Bohr model applies to all elements.
• D. The Bohr model uses quantum numbers, while the Schrödinger model does not.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the Bohr atomic model - it describes electrons as particles moving in fixed, circular orbits around the nucleus with quantized energy levels.
2. Step 2: Understand the Schrödinger model - it treats electrons as wave-like entities described by a wavefunction, which gives a probability distribution of where an electron is likely to be found, called orbitals.
3. Step 3: Compare the electron description - Bohr's model uses fixed paths (orbits), while Schrödinger's model uses probability clouds (orbitals) to represent electron positions.
4. Step 4: Recognize that the Schrödinger model is more general and accurate, applying quantum mechanics principles to describe electron behavior beyond hydrogen atoms.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the main difference lies in the conceptualization of electron location: fixed orbits in Bohr's model versus probabilistic orbitals in Schrödinger's model.