Chapter 1, Problem 41AP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The modifications required for four of the five original postulates of Dalton’s 1808 atomic theory of matter needs to be explained.

Concept Introduction: The major postulates of Dalton’s atomic theory are represented as follows:

1. The atoms are the indivisible particles forming matter.
2. For all the atoms of an element, the property such as mass is the same. For atoms of different elements, the masses are also different.
3. Atoms can be combined in different ratios to form different compounds.
4. Atoms can neither be created nor destroyed.
5. Compounds are formed by a combination of atoms of different elements by a fixed ratio.