Atomic Theory
Atomic Theory Matter is made up of main particles known as atoms, molecules and ions. Atoms: by definition, an atom is the smallest particle of an element which can take part in a chemical reaction. Its actual existence was established in the nineteenth century when John Dalton, an English chemist, put forward a theory to describe the nature of the atom. The atom is now considered to be the basic unit of simple substances or elements. DALTON’S ATOMIC THEORY In 1808, John Dalton proposed the Atomic Theory which can be summarized as follows; · All elements are made up of small, indivisible particles called atoms. · Atoms can neither be created nor destroyed . · Atoms of the same element are alike in every aspect, and differ from atoms of all other elements. · When atoms combine with each other atoms, they do so in simple ratios. · All chemical changes result from the combination or the separation of atoms.