Chapter 3.2, Problem 3RQ

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: This is to be explained how Dalton able to predict the formation of multiple compounds between the elements.

Concept introduction: 

Dalton’s atomic theory was proposed by John Dalton. Dalton atomic theory was discovered in the year $1803$ and that time small particles were not discovered.

Answer to Problem 3RQ

On the basis of the law of multiple proportions, Dalton was able to predict the formation of multiple compounds between the elements.

Explanation of Solution

John Dalton, British teacher and scientist, explained concepts behind most natural materials are mixtures of pure substance, pure substances are either elements or combinations of elements called compound. Summarize explanations of these concepts is termed as Dalton’s atomic theory. Dalton's model of the atom did not include neutrons, protons, and electrons inside the atoms. The reason behind this is that these particle (neutrons, protons, and electrons) were not discovered until the year $1932$ . In Dalton’s time, no one knew about neutrons, protons, and electrons.

According to Dalton’s theory of atom, atoms of an element can combine with atoms of different elements to make compounds. Also, a given compound will always have the same relative amounts of atoms or types of atoms.

The law of multiple proportions is a rule of stoichiometry. This law states that elements can combine in different ways to form different types of chemical compound. The mass ratios of these compounds are simple whole number multiples of each other. With the help of this law Dalton was able to predict the formation of multiple compounds between the elements.

Conclusion

According to the Dalton’s atomic theory, matter is composed of tiny particles, all atoms of certain element are identical, compound contains more than one element.