Question

Describe how Dalton's atomic theory models:

a) The organization of matter in gases, liquids, and solids.
b) Elements and compounds.

A. a) Dalton's theory doesn't address the organization of matter in gases, liquids, and solids. b) It suggests that elements and compounds are made of tiny, indivisible particles.
B. a) It proposes that atoms in gases are highly organized, while liquids and solids have randomly arranged atoms. b) It indicates that elements are mixtures of different atoms.
C. a) It suggests that atoms in gases are widely spaced, while in liquids and solids, they are closely packed. b) It proposes that elements are made up of different types of atoms, and compounds are made up of identical atoms.
D. a) Dalton's theory provides detailed explanations for the organization of matter in gases, liquids, and solids. b) It claims that elements are compounds made up of the same type of atoms.

Answer 1

Dalton's atomic theory maintains that atoms in gases are widely spaced, while in liquids and solids they are more closely packed. Elements consist of identical atoms, whereas compounds are composed of atoms from different elements combining in fixed whole-number ratios.

Step-by-step explanation:

John Dalton's atomic theory significantly advanced our understanding of chemical composition and the nature of elements and compounds. Dalton proposed in the early 19th century that all matter is made up of very small, indivisible particles called atoms. According to his theory, atoms of a given element are identical in size, mass, and other properties, while atoms of different elements vary in these properties.

In regards to the organization of matter in gases, liquids, and solids, the correct answer aligns with option C. Dalton's theory suggests that atoms in gases are widely spaced, meaning there is a lot of empty space between them. This accounts for the fluidity and compressibility of gases. In liquids and solids, atoms are more closely packed together, which accounts for their denser nature and incompressibility compared to gases.

Concerning elements and compounds, Dalton put forth the idea that elements are composed of only one kind of atom and cannot be broken down into simpler substances. This contrasts with compounds, which are made up of atoms from different elements that combine in fixed, simple whole-number ratios, and always have the same proportional mass of elements. Therefore, the correct choice is C.a) and C.b).

Dalton's atomic theory also touches on the law of conservation of matter, stating that atoms are neither created nor destroyed during chemical changes, which explains why the mass remains constant in chemical reactions.