Physical principles predict that the solar system model of the atom cannot be viable because
A) atoms would be constantly emitting energy.
B) atoms would be constantly absorbing energy.
C) compounds could not be easily formed.
D) atoms would not have symmetrical shapes.
E) the law of thermodynamics would not work.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to the solar system model of the atom, electrons orbit around the nucleus in fixed energy levels. However, the laws of electromagnetism predict that orbiting charged particles should lose energy in the form of radiation, meaning that electrons would be constantly emitting energy. This would cause the atom to collapse in a very short amount of time, making the solar system model of the atom unviable.

Physical Principles Predict That the Solar System Model of the Atom