J.J. Thomson
History of the Atomic Theory
Discovery and research
Thomson began studying cathode rays in 1894. During this time, this was a popular subject to study because many things were still unknown. When passing the rays through the vacuum, Thomson was able to measure the angle at which they deflected and calculate the ratio of the electrical charge. Thomson discovered that the ratio was the same regardless of the gas used. This led to the conclusion that the particles that make up gases are universal. He also determined that all matter is made up of tiny particles much smaller than atoms.
In the year of 1906, Thomson began to study positive charged ions. This study soon led to another one of his famous discoveries. He discovered that neon was composed of two different kinds of atom. This also proved the existence of Isotopes.