Which scientist is credited with developing the first modern atomic theory of matter?

• A. John Dalton
• B. Dmitri Mendeleev
• C. J.J. Thomson
• D. Ernest Rutherford

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the question is about the historical development of atomic theory in chemistry.
2. Recall that John Dalton is credited with formulating the first modern atomic theory, which proposed that matter is composed of indivisible atoms and that atoms of each element are identical in mass and properties.
3. Recognize that Dmitri Mendeleev is known for creating the periodic table, not the atomic theory itself.
4. Know that J.J. Thomson discovered the electron, which refined atomic theory but did not establish the original atomic theory.
5. Remember that Ernest Rutherford conducted the gold foil experiment, leading to the nuclear model of the atom, which came after Dalton's atomic theory.