Knowledge of atomic structure has evolved over time. Thomson discovered that atoms contain electrons, Rutherford discovered that most of the mass of an atom is concentrated in its center, and Bohr discovered that electrons orbit the nucleus. Taken together, what do these discoveries demonstrate?
Answer
A
the cumulative nature of science
B
the quantitative nature of science
C
the importance of thorough review of scientific papers
D
the importance of not publishing science until it is final
Explanation
Each scientist added a new finding that built on earlier knowledge about atoms: Thomson identified electrons, Rutherford described the concentrated center, and Bohr proposed electron orbits. Together, their discoveries show the cumulative nature of science, because scientific understanding develops through successive contributions.
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