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Multiple Choice
In early atomic theory, which scientist is commonly credited with calculating the electron’s charge-to-mass ratio and thereby enabling determination of the electron’s mass?
A
James Chadwick
B
J. J. Thomson
C
Ernest Rutherford
D
Niels Bohr
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the historical context of early atomic theory and the discovery of the electron.
Recall that the charge-to-mass ratio of the electron (\( \frac{e}{m} \)) was first measured by an experiment involving cathode rays.
Identify the scientist who conducted experiments with cathode rays and calculated the electron's charge-to-mass ratio; this was J. J. Thomson.
Recognize that by knowing the charge-to-mass ratio and later the charge of the electron, scientists could determine the electron's mass.
Note that other scientists listed, such as James Chadwick, Ernest Rutherford, and Niels Bohr, contributed to atomic theory but not specifically to calculating the electron's charge-to-mass ratio.