Question

Discuss pros and cons of Dalton's atomic theory.

Answer 1

demerits:

• Failure to explain the existence of isotopes or isobars- hence atoms of the same element MAY be different.
• Failure to explain the affinity of atomsof same or different kind to combine and form a Compound (molecule).
• Failure to explain the existence of Electrons, protons and neutrons- thus atoms are DIVISIBLE.
• Failure to explain the difference in physical properties among substances made from atoms of the same element.

The merits of Dalton’s atomic theory are explained as follows:

All atoms are indivisible, indestructible, and unchangeable.
An atom of an element cannot be created, divided, destroyed, or split into smaller particles or transformed into atoms of other elements or transformed into other atoms in a chemical reaction.
They are simply rearranged in a new compound.
Dalton’s atomic theory based this hypothesis on the law of conservation of mass. He also described a workable distinction between atom and molecules