Bohr model

Definition

The Bohr model is an early atomic model in which electrons orbit the nucleus in fixed energy levels or shells. It explains how electrons can jump between these levels by absorbing or emitting specific amounts of energy, leading to the formation of spectral lines.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Bohr model was proposed by Niels Bohr in 1913.
2. It introduced the concept of quantized electron orbits, which are at specific distances from the nucleus.
3. Spectral lines are produced when electrons move between these quantized energy levels, either absorbing or emitting photons.
4. The model successfully explained the spectral lines of hydrogen but had limitations for more complex atoms.
5. Electron transitions to lower energy levels release photons with specific wavelengths, corresponding to the observed spectral lines.

Review Questions

• Who proposed the Bohr model and in what year?
• How does the Bohr model explain the formation of spectral lines?
• What were some limitations of the Bohr model?

Related terms

Quantum Leap: A sudden change of an electron between two quantized states.

Photon:

A particle representing a quantum of light or other electromagnetic radiation.

Hydrogen Spectrum: The set of spectral lines emitted by hydrogen atoms due to electron transitions between different energy levels.