Chapter 2, Problem 1RQ

(a)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The atomic view and the continuous view of matter should be distinguished.

Concept Introduction:

Matter refers to any substance that occupies some space and has various physical and chemical properties.

Answer to Problem 1RQ

Solution:

According to Aristotle’s continuous view, a matter is the smallest part of a substance and it can’t be divided into smaller components.
However, according to Dalton’s atomic view, a matter consists of smaller particles called atoms. Atoms contain various sub-atomic particles like electrons, protons, and neutrons.

Explanation of Solution

A matter is a substance that occupies space. Aristotle found that matter can’t be divided into smaller particles. For this reason, his view is known as the continuous view of the matter.
According to Dalton, a matter consists of smaller particles known as atoms. These atoms provide different physical and chemical properties. For this reason, his view is known as the atomic view of the matter.

(b)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The ancient Greek definition of an element and the modern definition of an element should be distinguished.

Concept Introduction:

An element was defined in ancient times and gradually the definition has been modified to obtain a modern definition.

Answer to Problem 1RQ

Solution:

During ancient Greek times, an element referred to four elements of nature such as earth, water, air, and fire. According to the modern definition, an element is a substance that contains all similar atoms with the same atomic number and it cannot be converted to simpler forms by chemical reactions.

Explanation of Solution

According to classical thoughts, an element represented four elements of nature which are earth, water, air, and fire. However, according to modern scientists, an element is the simplest form of a substance and contains similar atoms.