THE QUANTUM HYPOTHESES OF THE BOHR MODEL, A HISTORIC PERSPECTIVE*
Abstract
Bohr’s model for a nuclear one-electron atom is obtained by integrating Planck’s constant into a classically derived expression describing the equilibrium of an electron orbiting in a stationary state orbital. While the status quo understanding is that Bohr did so by applying an ad hoc assumption that angular momentum was conserved, Bohr historically applied a variation of Plank’s theory in 1913 to derive his model. Bohr subsequently recognized angular momentum quantization as the essential hypothesis of his model, the Bohr Hypothesis. However, angular momentum quantization with respect to atomic structure predated the Bohr model, and its transition from outcome to basis occurred within the early quantum period. The relevant questions then to consider is why did Bohr derive his model via Planck’s theory, and why did angular momentum quantization replace Planck’s theory as a basis for deriving Bohr’s model.
Recommended Citation
Roessle, Peter Alden
(2021)
"THE QUANTUM HYPOTHESES OF THE BOHR MODEL, A HISTORIC PERSPECTIVE*,"
Georgia Journal of Science, Vol. 79, No. 1, Article 7.
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.gaacademy.org/gjs/vol79/iss1/7