Question Detail

PHY 104 PHY 104 Past Questions Objective Question
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Question

The main problem with the solar system model of the atom is that
Options
A Electrons move in circular, not elliptical orbits
B The electrons should lose energy since they are accelerating
Correct Answer
C Opposite charges should attract one another
D The mass ratio of the nucleus to the electrons is wrong
Correct Answer

Option B is the correct answer.

Detailed Explanation

According to classical physics, an accelerating charged particle (like an electron in orbit) should radiate electromagnetic waves and lose energy. This would cause the electron to spiral into the nucleus, making the atom unstable. This was a major flaw of the planetary model.

Hint

Think about what happens to a charged particle that accelerates (undergoes circular motion).

Question Info

Course: PHY 104
Topic: PHY 104 Past Questions
Type: Objective
Difficulty: Not specified
Question 763 of 947
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