The evolution of atomic theory is an excellent example of the scientific method in action. With each new experiment, the science community as able to expand on our understanding of what an atom looks like. In this discussion, choose one experiment in that process to elaborate on.compare the element you researched to the one your classmate researched. Comment on any properties they share or ways in which they are different.

Discussion 1: Adopt an Element OR Evolution of Atomic Theory

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Choose either Option 1 or Option 2
Option 1: Adopt an Element

Overview

There are 118 elements on the periodic table. In this discussion you will choose one of them to investigate and present to the class. To make the discussion more interesting, be sure to choose an element that you have never heard of before!

Instructions for Option 1

Start by choosing an element from the periodic table. The more obscure it is, the more interesting our discussion will be.

Conduct an internet search and present the following information for your discussion post:

The element’s name, chemical symbol, atomic number, atomic mass and number of valence electrons
How the element was discovered
At least three properties of the element
At least one application for the element
Option #2- Evolution of Atomic Theory

Overview

The evolution of atomic theory is an excellent example of the scientific method in action. With each new experiment, the science community as able to expand on our understanding of what an atom looks like. In this discussion, choose one experiment in that process to elaborate on.

Instructions for Option 2

Review the timeline of experiments that have contributed to our understanding of the workings and composition of the atom. You can find this information in Sections 2.1 and 2.2 of your chemistry text or you can perform an internet search. Be sure to cite any internet sources you use.

A detailed description of the experiment you are reviewing includes:

The scientist’s name
The name of the experiment
The date(s) when the research took place
A summary of experimental procedures and results
The qualities that the experiment contributed to our understanding of the atom.

Discussion Tips

As you visit the discussion throughout the week, here are some suggestions for responding to your classmates’ posts:

For Option 1, compare the element you researched to the one your classmate researched. Comment on any properties they share or ways in which they are different.

For Option 2, look at the step after the one that your classmate presented. Comment on significant experiments that added to the next stage of knowledge of Atomic Theory.

Comment on something new you learned.

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