Quantum Model of an Atom

Bohr's Model

Nagaoka's Model

Dalton's Model

Quantum Model

Electrons are randomly distributed throughout the atom.

Electrons orbit the nucleus in specific, quantized energy levels.

Electrons are positively charged particles.

Electrons are always found in a cloud-like region around the nucleus.

Refraction

Diffraction

Interference

Reflection

They are always particles.

They are always waves.

They can behave as both waves and particles.

They only interact with light.

Yes

No

The movement of planets around the sun

Electrons as waves around an atom

The structure of the atomic nucleus

The speed of light in a vacuum

As particles orbiting in fixed paths

As discrete points at specific energy levels

As smeared out waves in space

As tiny, solid spheres

Dumbbell-shaped

Spherical

Cloverleaf-shaped

Complex and multi-lobed

n = 1

n = 2

n = 3

n = 4