Discovering Subatomic Structure: The Indivisible Atom Breaks

Describe cathode ray experiments and explain what properties of the rays suggested a universal subatomic particle.

Derive the logic of Thomson's charge-to-mass ratio measurement and identify what it leaves undetermined.

Explain how Millikan's oil drop experiment established charge quantization and the electron's fundamental charge.

Analyze Rutherford's scattering experiment: why most alpha particles pass through, why some bounce back, and what this implies about atomic structure.

Articulate why a classical nuclear atom is inherently unstable based on the principles of electromagnetism.