bohr theory

Bohr theory   n.  An early model of atomic structure in which electrons travel around the nucleus in a number of discrete stable orbits determined by quantum conditions. [After Niels Henrik David Bohr.]

Main Entry: Bohr theory
Function: noun
: a theory in early quantum physics: an atom consists of a positively charged nucleus about which revolves one or more electrons ofquantized energy
Bohr, Niels Henrik David (1885–1962) Danish physicist. Bohr was the foremost influence on and major contributor to the development of quantum theory inthe first half of the 20th century. In 1913 he postulated the theory that bears his name and that laid the groundwork for modern atomic physics. During World War II he worked in Britain and the UnitedStates on atomic bomb projects. Bohr was awarded the Nobel Prize for Physics in 1922.

Bohr theory   An early model of atomic structure, in which electrons circulate around the nucleus in discrete, stable orbits with different energy levels. This model was the first to predict and explain the atomic spectrum of the hydrogen atom, which arises as the electron jumps from one orbit to another orbit of lower energy, giving off electromagnetic radiation of predictable frequencies. Later models of atomic structure abandoned the idea of circular orbits, and explained the stable orbits as standing waves. See also atomic spectrum, orbital.