Definition

1. Noun:
   • A theory in physics that describes the structure of atoms by combining Ernest Rutherford's nuclear model with early quantum concepts. It proposes that electrons orbit an atomic nucleus only in specific, fixed energy levels (stationary states) and that light is emitted or absorbed when an electron makes a discontinuous jump (quantum leap) between these allowed energy states.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The Bohr theory successfully explained the discrete spectral lines of the hydrogen atom.
  • While groundbreaking, the Bohr theory was later superseded by more complete quantum mechanical models.

Advanced Usage

• "within the framework of the Bohr theory": used to describe an explanation or calculation based on this specific model.
  • The energy of the emitted photon was calculated within the framework of the Bohr theory.

Variants and Related Words

• Bohr model (n): Often used interchangeably with "Bohr theory" to refer specifically to the visual planetary model of the atom it describes.
  • The Bohr model depicts electrons in circular orbits around the nucleus.
• Quantum theory (n): The broader theoretical framework concerning energy quanta, parts of which were incorporated into the Bohr theory.

Synonyms

• Bohr atomic model: A direct synonym emphasizing the structural representation.
• Bohr's theory: A possessive form with identical meaning.

Related Phrases

• Stationary state: A key concept from the theory, referring to the fixed energy levels in which an electron can exist without radiating energy.
• Quantum jump/leap: The instantaneous transition of an electron between two stationary states, leading to the emission or absorption of light.

Noun

1. (physics) a theory of atomic structure that combined Rutherford's model with the quantum theory; electrons orbiting a nucleus can only be in certain stationary energy states and light is emitted when electrons jump from one energy state to another