Question

How does Rutherford model of the atom compare with Thomson’s model

Answer 1

Hi

Both Rutherford and JJ Thomson (Two physicists) proposed the structure (or model) of atom in 1908 and 1904 respectively, below are the main differences between their models.

• 1: Rutherford's atomic model was commonly known as planetary model while Thomson's atomic model is commonly known as Plum pudding model.
• 2: According to Rutherford's model, there was a concept of nucleus and it indicated for the first time in history that atom contains central nucleus filled with positively charged protons surrounded by electrons in fixed orbits, so the whole structure is similar to our planetary system in which planets revolve around the sun just like electrons revolve around the nucleus. On the other hand, Thomson's model showed that atom is basically a positively charged floating filling inside which are negatively charged raisins or electrons.
• 3: Thomson's model was rejected even though he received Noel prize for his work however, Rutherford's proposed structure was considered accurate and more reliable when  he proposed it in 1908 and till date the modern atomic models are based on Rutherford's atomic model.

Hope it helps!