Question

Is an atom divisible or indivisible?

Answer 1

Hint: We all are familiar with Dalton's atomic theory which regarded the atom as the ultimate particle of matter. To answer the question, also try to recall other scientific discoveries which resulted in the discovery of subatomic particles.

Complete answer:
Let’s try to recall the postulates of Dalton’s atomic theory. Some of them were-
Matter consists of indivisible atoms.
All the atoms of a given element have identical properties including identical mass. Atoms of different elements differ in mass.
Compounds are formed when atoms of different elements combine in a fixed ratio.
As we all know this theory explained laws of constant composition, multiple proportion etc. but failed to explain the results of experiments J.J Thomson model where discovery of electrons were made. Thus the postulate that atoms are indivisible proved to be wrong.
J.J Thomson discovered the plum pudding model where electrons were embedded like raisins in a pudding . Thus the first subatomic particle electron was discovered.
Then came Rutherford's nuclear model of atoms and Bohr’s model of atoms which explained the movement of electron nucleus composition, that is it is made up of protons and neutrons and where the positively charged particles are located.
Electrons are found in the orbitals revolving around the nucleus, protons and neutrons are at the center or core of the atom.
Subatomic particles which are electron, protons and neutrons participate in some reactions like radioactive decay.
Thus from the above we can conclude that atoms are divisible particles.

Note:
Dalton’s atomic theory is highly regarded since at that time modern equipment was unavailable but still he was able to postulate a theory of atoms which cannot be seen with naked eyes. He provided a way forward for further discoveries of atoms and its structure.