Question

Write the main postulates of Dalton’s Atomic theory.

Answer 1

The main postulates of Dalton’s atomic theory are:

1. All the matters are made up of extremely small particles called atoms (Greek philosopher Democritus used the same name for the smallest indivisible particles).
2. Atoms of the same element are identical in all respects (size, shape, mass and properties).
3. Atoms of different elements have different sizes and masses and possess different properties.
4. Atoms can neither be created nor be destroyed, i.e., atom is indestructible.
5. Atoms of different elements may combine with each other in a fixed simple ratio to form molecules or compounds.
6. An atom is the smallest particle of matter that takes part in a chemical reaction.