Question

select the correct answer. why is john dalton known as the originator of atomic theory? a. he was the first to propose that matter is made of atoms. b. he proved that atoms are divisible in nature. c. he based his theory on philosophical assumptions. d. he could scientifically explain the theory of atoms.

Explanation:

• Option A: Ancient philosophers like Democritus also proposed matter is made of atoms, so Dalton wasn't the first.
• Option B: Dalton's atomic theory stated atoms are indivisible (later proven wrong), so this is incorrect.
• Option C: Dalton's theory was based on scientific experiments (like gas laws), not philosophical assumptions.
• Option D: Dalton used scientific evidence (from experiments on combining ratios of elements in compounds) to explain atomic theory, providing a scientific basis, unlike earlier philosophical ideas.

Answer:

D. He could scientifically explain the theory of atoms.