How were atomic numbers exactly determined?

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    Atomic Numbers
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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the determination of atomic numbers, specifically how they were empirically established historically. Participants express curiosity about the role of Moseley's law in this context.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Historical

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a lack of understanding regarding how atomic numbers were determined and mentions that this topic was not covered in their education.
  • Another participant suggests that the Wikipedia article on atomic numbers might provide helpful information.
  • A third participant shares a link to Moseley's original paper from 1913, implying it contains relevant details about the determination of atomic numbers.
  • A later reply acknowledges the helpfulness of the shared resources and notes the connection between the Wikipedia article and Moseley's paper.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not appear to reach a consensus on the specifics of how atomic numbers were determined, and the discussion remains exploratory with various resources being shared.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference historical documents and articles but do not delve into the specific methodologies or empirical data used to establish atomic numbers.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in the historical development of atomic theory, the role of Moseley's law, or those seeking foundational knowledge in chemistry and physics.

ViolentCorpse
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Pardon my ignorance please, but they never taught us about that in school. I've never seen any mention in any of the chemistry/physics/electronics textbooks that I've ever read about how the atomic numbers of each element were empirically found in the first place. I understand it has something to do with Moseley's law, but how exactly does that help determine the number of protons an atom contains?
 
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Oh wow. Thank you so much, JohnRC! And you too Greg Bernhardt. I had already read the wiki article on it, but I wanted a little more detailed account (However, I just found that Moseley's paper is cited in the wiki page. I feel bad for that).

Thanks, again guys! :)
 
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