What Are the Limitations of Bohr's Atom Model in Electron Distribution?

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SUMMARY

The Bohr model of the atom, while foundational, fails to accurately describe electron distribution and arrangement. Electrons are theorized to revolve around the nucleus in circular orbits, but this simplistic view does not reflect their actual behavior, which is more complex and not limited to circular paths. The model's inability to account for the true distribution of electrons leads to inconsistencies, making it ultimately inadequate for explaining atomic structure.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of atomic structure and basic quantum mechanics
  • Familiarity with the Bohr model of the atom
  • Knowledge of electron behavior and wave-particle duality
  • Basic concepts of electrostatic forces in atomic interactions
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  • Research quantum mechanics and the Schrödinger equation
  • Explore the concept of electron clouds and probability distributions
  • Learn about the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle
  • Investigate advanced atomic models, such as the quantum mechanical model of the atom
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Students of physics, educators teaching atomic theory, and anyone interested in the limitations of classical models in explaining modern atomic structure.

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Homework Statement



revered members,
one limitation of bohr atom model is that it could not account for distribution and arrangement of electrons. i could not understand this statement, that is, according to bohr , electrons revolve around the nucleus in circular orbits and the necessary centripetal force is provided by the electrostatic force of attraction between the nucleus and the electron. so, electrons are situated around the nucleus. THEN HOW CAN WE SAY THAT HE COULD NOT ACCOUNT FOR DISTRIBUTION AND ARRANGEMENT OF electrons? does electrons in circular orbits around nucleus not mean distribution and arrangement? please help..

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The Attempt at a Solution

 
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I'm not sure what particular observations they're referring to, but clearly electrons don't orbit in perfect circles, so the bohr model wouldn't account for their true distributions---i suppose that's what they're referring to. Also the bohr model isn't fully self-consistent...

Anyway, I don't think the particular wording here is important, the overall message is that the bohr model, while useful, is wrong in the end.
 

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