Question:medium

Who modified Bohr's theory by introducing elliptical orbits for electron path?

Updated On: Jun 25, 2026
  • Hund
  • Thomson
  • Rutherford
  • Sommerfeld
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

The question asks about the scientist who modified Bohr's theory by introducing elliptical orbits for the electron path. Let's analyze each option to determine the correct answer.

  1. Hund: Friedrich Hund is known for Hund's rules, which explain the electron configuration and filling order within an atom's orbitals. He did not modify Bohr's model.
  2. Thomson: J.J. Thomson is famous for discovering the electron and proposing the "plum pudding" model, which was a predecessor to Bohr's model but did not involve modifications to it.
  3. Rutherford: Ernest Rutherford developed the nuclear model of the atom, which inspired Bohr's work but did not modify Bohr's model with elliptical orbits.
  4. Sommerfeld: Arnold Sommerfeld extended Bohr's model by introducing elliptical orbits. He suggested that electrons move in elliptical orbits rather than circular ones and introduced additional quantum numbers to describe their motion. This modification was crucial in explaining the fine structure of spectral lines.

Based on this analysis, the correct answer is Sommerfeld. He is credited with enhancing Bohr's atomic model to account for relativistic effects and the fine structure observed in hydrogen spectra by introducing elliptical orbits.

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