Question

What is the contribution of the following in developing the atomic theory?

(a) Maharshi Kanada

(b) Democritus

Answer 1

(a) According to Maharshi Kanada:
Matter consisted of indestructible particles called paramanu (now called atoms).
A paramanu does not exist in the free state, rather it combines with other paramanus to form a bigger particle called the anu (now called a molecule).

(b) Democritus defined the term atom which comes from the Greek word atomos, meaning indivisible.