Bohr’s model

Definition

Bohr's model is an early quantum theory that describes the structure of atoms, particularly hydrogen. It depicts electrons orbiting the nucleus in fixed energy levels or shells.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Bohr's model introduced the concept of quantized energy levels for electrons.
2. It successfully explained the spectral lines of hydrogen by proposing that electron transitions between energy levels result in emission or absorption of photons.
3. According to Bohr's model, electrons occupy specific orbits with fixed radii and energies, known as stationary states.
4. The model failed to accurately describe atoms with more than one electron and was later replaced by more advanced quantum mechanical models.
5. Bohr's postulates included the idea that angular momentum of an electron in orbit is quantized and given by $L = n\hbar$, where $n$ is a positive integer.

Review Questions

• What key concept did Bohr introduce regarding electron energy levels?
• How does Bohr’s model explain the emission spectrum of hydrogen?
• Why was Bohr’s model eventually replaced by more advanced theories?

Related terms

Quantum Mechanical Model:

A more accurate atomic model that describes electron behavior using wave functions and probability distributions.

Energy Levels:

Specific regions around the nucleus where electrons are likely to be found, each with a fixed amount of energy.

Spectral Lines: Lines representing wavelengths of light emitted or absorbed by an element, corresponding to electron transitions between energy levels.