+ John Dalton’s Atomic Theory Ryan Templeton, Sam Sanavi

+ Photos of Dalton

+ Who is John Dalton? Born September 6, 1766, in Eaglesfield, England Died July 26, 1844 in Manchester, England Religious man, he was a Quaker, kept him from his fame Teacher at the age of twelve, principal 5 years later Professor at New College in Manchester

+ Studies First got into meteorology Researched color blindness which he had Through his interests in atmospheric pressure he was led to gases Studied gases and came up with his atomic theory

+ Dalton’s Atomic Theory Dalton revised Democritus’s atomic law through experimental trial. Believed of extremely small particles known as “atoms”. Atoms are identical in means of mass, chemistry, size, and mass. Atoms cannot be created, divided, or destroyed. Different atoms combine to form compounds. In chemical reactions, atoms are separated, combined, or rearranged.

+ Compared to Democritus’ theory. Dalton’s atomic theory was a revised version of Democritus’ theory. Democritus believed of small objects holding mass together known as Atoms. Dalton and Democritus believed atoms were indivisible and invincible. Dalton thought all atoms were one size, Democritus said all were different. Democritus believed that physical traits of an object were caused by size and movement of atoms; Dalton did not believe this.

+ Compared to todays theory. Dalton’s theory was technically valid, but in comparison to modern atomic theory, it was a bit off. We know that atoms can be destroyed by nuclear reactions but not chemical reactions. We also know that not all atoms are the same. Atoms can differ by factors such as mass thus making Isotopes.

+ Conclusion Dalton’s atomic theory was a necessary and imperative study in science that showed the true make up of matter. Even though some of his theories are wrong, it can’t be said that his work was not needed. His theory holds theoretical foundation in science.

+ Websites to look at alton.html