Question

Many scientists have contributed to the atomic theory. In 1803 John adopting gave new insight to this theory. Which description of an atom fits our MOST recent current understanding?

A. Every oxygen atom is the same as every hydrogen atom
B. Every hydrogen atom is the same as every other hydrogen atom
C. Every atom of water is the same as any other liquid
D. Every atom of one solid is the same as any of another solid

Answer 1

The most accurate description of an atom based on current understanding is that every hydrogen atom is essentially the same as every other hydrogen atom, with minor variations due to isotopes.

Step-by-step explanation:

The modern atomic theory, as described by John Dalton around 1803, has evolved over time. Dalton's groundbreaking work provided that all elements are composed of atoms, each with a distinct number of protons that defines the identity of that element. According to Dalton's theory, individual atoms are extremely small, typically with diameters of around 5.4 × 10-10 meters. Despite his substantial contributions, subsequent developments in chemistry have led to a revised understanding, with three key updates: atoms can be further subdivided, not all atoms of an element are identical in mass due to isotopes, and atoms can be transformed into atoms of other elements through nuclear reactions such as fission and fusion.

Therefore, the description of an atom that fits our most recent current understanding is B. Every hydrogen atom is the same as every other hydrogen atom. This statement is correct with the clarification that while all hydrogen atoms are identical in having one proton, they may differ slightly due to the presence of isotopes, which have additional neutrons.