Which of the following best describes Dalton's atomic model?

• A. Atoms are composed of a dense nucleus containing protons and neutrons, with electrons in a cloud around the nucleus.
• B. Atoms are made up of a positively charged 'pudding' with negatively charged electrons embedded within it.
• C. Atoms consist of a positively charged nucleus surrounded by electrons in fixed orbits.
• D. Atoms are solid, indivisible spheres that make up all matter.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall the historical development of atomic models to understand Dalton's contribution.
2. Dalton's atomic model, proposed in the early 19th century, described atoms as the smallest indivisible units of matter.
3. According to Dalton, atoms are solid, indivisible spheres that combine in fixed ratios to form compounds.
4. This model did not include internal structure such as electrons, protons, or neutrons, which were discovered later.
5. Therefore, the best description of Dalton's atomic model is that atoms are solid, indivisible spheres that make up all matter.