Question

how did the development of the earliest idea about atoms differ from the later work of scientists?
it was based on sound evidence.
there were explanations for the idea.
it was based on the thoughts of an early philosopher.
there were experiments conducted to support the idea.

Explanation:

The earliest ideas about atoms, like those of Democritus, were philosophical speculations. Later scientific work on atoms was based on experiments and evidence - based reasoning. The early ideas didn't have experimental support and were more of philosophical musings.

Answer:

It was based on the thoughts of an early philosopher.