Current Atomic Model vs. Schrödinger Atomic Theory

Attribute	Current Atomic Model	Schrödinger Atomic Theory
Founder	John Dalton	Erwin Schrödinger
Basic Unit	Atom	Electron cloud
Structure	Nucleus surrounded by electrons in fixed orbits	Nucleus surrounded by electron cloud with probability distribution
Behavior of Electrons	Move in fixed orbits	Described by wave functions
Predictability	Can predict exact position and momentum of electrons	Can only predict probability of finding electrons in a certain region

Introduction

Atomic theory has evolved over the years, with different scientists proposing various models to explain the structure of atoms. Two prominent theories in this field are the Current Atomic Model and Schrödinger Atomic Theory. In this article, we will compare the attributes of these two theories to understand their similarities and differences.

Current Atomic Model

The Current Atomic Model, also known as the Bohr Model, was proposed by Niels Bohr in 1913. According to this model, electrons orbit the nucleus in fixed energy levels or shells. These energy levels are quantized, meaning that electrons can only exist in specific orbits around the nucleus. The model also states that electrons can jump between energy levels by absorbing or emitting energy in the form of photons.

One of the key features of the Current Atomic Model is its simplicity and ease of understanding. It provides a visual representation of the structure of an atom, with electrons moving in circular orbits around the nucleus. This model was instrumental in explaining the spectral lines of hydrogen and other elements, as well as predicting the behavior of electrons in atoms.

However, the Current Atomic Model has its limitations. It fails to accurately describe the behavior of electrons in atoms with more than one electron. The model also does not account for the wave-like nature of electrons, as described by quantum mechanics. These shortcomings led to the development of more advanced atomic theories, such as the Schrödinger Atomic Theory.

Schrödinger Atomic Theory

The Schrödinger Atomic Theory, also known as the quantum mechanical model of the atom, was developed by Erwin Schrödinger in 1926. This theory is based on the principles of quantum mechanics, which describe the behavior of particles at the atomic and subatomic levels. In this model, electrons are not confined to specific orbits but instead exist in regions of space known as orbitals.

One of the key features of the Schrödinger Atomic Theory is its ability to describe the wave-like nature of electrons. According to this theory, electrons exhibit both particle-like and wave-like properties, with their behavior governed by probability distributions. The concept of orbitals in this model provides a more accurate representation of the electron cloud surrounding the nucleus.

The Schrödinger Atomic Theory also allows for the calculation of the probability of finding an electron at a specific location in an atom. This is crucial for understanding chemical bonding and the properties of different elements. The theory has been successful in explaining the behavior of electrons in complex atoms and molecules, making it a valuable tool in modern chemistry.

Comparison

When comparing the Current Atomic Model and Schrödinger Atomic Theory, several differences become apparent. The Bohr Model is based on classical physics and assumes that electrons move in circular orbits around the nucleus, while the quantum mechanical model describes electrons as existing in orbitals with wave-like properties.

• The Current Atomic Model uses fixed energy levels to describe the arrangement of electrons, while the Schrödinger Atomic Theory uses probability distributions to define the electron cloud.
• The Bohr Model is limited in its ability to describe the behavior of electrons in complex atoms, whereas the quantum mechanical model provides a more accurate representation of electron behavior.
• The Schrödinger Atomic Theory has been successful in predicting the properties of elements and molecules, while the Bohr Model is primarily used for educational purposes and as a conceptual tool.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the Current Atomic Model and Schrödinger Atomic Theory have contributed significantly to our understanding of the structure of atoms. While the Bohr Model provided a simple and intuitive representation of atomic structure, the quantum mechanical model has advanced our knowledge of electron behavior at the atomic level. By comparing the attributes of these two theories, we can appreciate the evolution of atomic theory and the contributions of scientists like Niels Bohr and Erwin Schrödinger to the field of chemistry.