5
QuizMultiple Choice

Atomic Theory

Question 5 • GA-GSE Physical Science A

Why did Thomson’s results from experimenting with cathode rays cause a big change in scientific thought about atoms?

Answer
A
His results gave people a picture of what atoms look like for the first time.
B
His results gave the first clues that atoms could be created and destroyed.
C
His results gave the first experimental evidence that matter is made up of atoms.
D
His results gave the first evidence that atoms were made up of smaller particles.

Explanation

Thomson’s cathode-ray experiments led him to identify the electron, a negatively charged particle found inside atoms. This was the first experimental evidence that atoms were not indivisible, but contained smaller particles, so D is correct. The experiments did not show that atoms could be created or destroyed, nor were they the first evidence that matter is made of atoms.

AI-written and checked against the verified answer.

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