Question

What are the limitations of Bohr's atomic model?

Answer 1

Limitations of Bohr Atomic Model Theory

• It violates the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle. The Bohr atomic model theory considers electrons to have both a known radius and orbit i.e. known position and momentum at the same time, which is impossible according to Heisenberg.
• The Bohr atomic model theory made correct predictions for smaller sized atoms like hydrogen, but poor spectral predictions are obtained when larger atoms are considered.
• It failed to explain the Zeeman effect when the spectral line is split into several components in the presence of a magnetic field.
• It failed to explain the Stark effect when the spectral line gets split up into fine lines in the presence of an electric field.