State the main postulates of - Dalton's atomic theory. Explain how the modern atomic theory contradicted Dalton's atomic theory.
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Postulates of Dalton's atomic theory : Matter consists of particles called - atoms, which are indivisible & cannot be created or destroyed.
- Atoms of the same element are alike but differ from atoms of all other elements.
- Compounds or molecules are formed when atoms combine with other atoms in simple whole number ratios.
- An atom is the smallest unit of matter which takes part in a chemical reaction.
Contradiction :
| Modern atomic theory | Dalton's atomic theory |
|---|---|
| Atoms are destructible | Atoms are indestructible |
| Atoms are divisible & consist of - protons, electrons & neutrons | Atoms are indivisible & smallest particle of an element. |
| Atoms of the same element may not be alike as seen in case of isotopes | Atoms of the same element are alike in all respect. |

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