Which of the following is a postulate of Dalton's atomic theory?
I. All matter is made of very tiny particles called atoms, which participate in chemical reactions.
II. Atoms are indivisible particles, which cannot be created or destroyed in a chemical reaction.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Correct Answer: Option 3 (Both I and II)
Explanation:
John Dalton presented his atomic theory in 1808, which provides fundamental insights into the nature of matter. Both statements you provided are key pillars of this theory:
Statement I: According to Dalton, all matter (whether elements, compounds, or mixtures) is composed of extremely tiny particles called atoms. These atoms are the basic units of chemical reactions.
Statement II: This is based on the Law of Conservation of Mass. Dalton stated that atoms are indivisible, meaning they can neither be created nor destroyed in a chemical reaction.
Other important points of Dalton's theory:
All atoms of the same element have the same mass and chemical properties.
Atoms of different elements have different masses and chemical properties.
Atoms combine in small whole-number ratios to form compounds.
Possible Questions for the Upcoming Exam
According to modern science, is the atom truly indivisible?
(Answer: No, it can be divided into electrons, protons, and neutrons)
Who formulated the atomic theory?
(Answer: John Dalton)
Who gave the 'Law of Constant Proportions'? (Answer: Joseph Proust)