Atomic Structure: Theory vs Observation

In summary, the quantum mechanical model accurately explains the behavior of atoms and is not just a mathematical tool. Scientists have gathered evidence through experiments to support this model and it separates science from unverified ideas. Other areas of the world may rely on speculation, but science uses evidence to support its theories.
  • #1
Chaitanya V
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Does atom really looks and behaves like as that explained in quantum mechanical model?
Or is it just a Mathematical Tool to express the observations?
Is it like that that scientist were unable to find any clue about real atomic structure and just created a mathematical tools following the observations to satisfy the conditions?
 
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  • #2
Chaitanya V said:
Does atom really looks and behaves like as that explained in quantum mechanical model?
Or is it just a Mathematical Tool to express the observations?
Is it like that that scientist were unable to find any clue about real atomic structure and just created a mathematical tools following the observations to satisfy the conditions?

This makes no sense.

Apply this to "gravity" or "electrostatic". Do you think the same way about electricity?

The ONLY means we have is to compare our theoretical description with experimental results. It is what separate science from unverified ideas, and it is MORE than what other non-science areas are able to do!

If doing this makes science just a "mathematical tool", then other parts of your world are no better than random speculation.

Zz.
 
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  • #3
Chaitanya V said:
Does atom really looks and behaves like as that explained in quantum mechanical model?
Or is it just a Mathematical Tool to express the observations?
Is it like that that scientist were unable to find any clue about real atomic structure and just created a mathematical tools following the observations to satisfy the conditions?

Well, with a great deal of experimental effort, we can take pictures of the electron cloud in an atom, and see that it obeys our predictions from quantum mechanics. See, for example:
https://physics.aps.org/featured-article-pdf/10.1103/PhysRevLett.110.213001

So long story short, yes, they really look and behave like that, at least as far as we've been able to tell.
 

Related to Atomic Structure: Theory vs Observation

1. What is the atomic structure?

The atomic structure refers to the organization and arrangement of particles within an atom. It consists of a positively charged nucleus made up of protons and neutrons, surrounded by negatively charged electrons in energy levels or orbitals.

2. How does the theory of atomic structure differ from observation?

The theory of atomic structure is based on mathematical models and experiments that explain the behavior and properties of atoms. Observation, on the other hand, involves direct measurement and visualization of atoms and their components using advanced imaging techniques.

3. What is the role of atomic theory in modern science?

Atomic theory is the foundation of modern science, as it helps us understand the fundamental building blocks of matter and their interactions. It also allows us to predict and explain the behavior of different substances, leading to advancements in fields such as chemistry, physics, and materials science.

4. How has our understanding of atomic structure changed over time?

Our understanding of atomic structure has evolved over time as new discoveries and technological advancements have been made. From the early model of a solid, indivisible sphere proposed by Dalton, to the current understanding of subatomic particles and their complex interactions, the atomic structure has been continuously refined and expanded upon.

5. What evidence supports the theory of atomic structure?

The theory of atomic structure is supported by various pieces of evidence, including the results of experiments such as the gold foil experiment by Rutherford, the discovery of isotopes, and the behavior of atoms in chemical reactions. Additionally, advancements in technology, such as scanning tunneling microscopes, have allowed us to directly observe and manipulate individual atoms, further confirming the theory.

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