Drawbacks of Rutherford's Atomic Model Experiment

Last updated at July 18, 2026 by

Rutherford suggested that:

  • Electrons revolve around the nucleus in a circular path.
  • This is not possible because, if a particle follows a circular orbit, it will undergo acceleration (due to change in velocity as a result of continuous change in direction in a circular path).

8. velocity has constant-Teachoo-01.png



  • During acceleration, charged particles radiate and lose energy.
  • After losing all energy, the charged electron will ultimately fall into the nucleus.
  • This would make the atom very unstable.
  • But we know that atoms are actually stable.
  • Hence, there was a flaw in Rutherford's model of an atom.

9. drawbacks of rutherford model-Teachoo-01.png

Examples -

In text Question - Page 49 Q2, Q4

NCERT Back Exercise - Q3, Q15

 

 

Since Rutherford was unable to explain the drawbacks of his model,

Bohr came up with his model of atom.

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