J.J. Thomson
Explanation
The discovery of subatomic particles marked a significant shift in the understanding of matter, proving that atoms are divisible and composed of smaller constituents.
- E. Goldstein E. Goldstein: Incorrect. Eugen Goldstein is credited with the discovery of anode rays (also known as canal rays) in 1886, which eventually led to the discovery of the proton.
- J.J. Thomson J.J. Thomson: Correct. J.J. Thomson discovered the electron in 1897 through his experiments with cathode ray discharge tubes. He determined the charge-to-mass ratio (e/m) of these particles. For his theoretical and experimental investigations on the conduction of electricity by gases, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1906.
- Neils Bohr Neils Bohr: Incorrect. Neils Bohr proposed a model of the atom in which electrons revolve around the nucleus in discrete, stable orbits (energy shells). He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1922 for his services in the investigation of the structure of atoms and of the radiation emanating from them.
- E. Rutherford E. Rutherford: Incorrect. Ernest Rutherford is best known for the discovery of the atomic nucleus through his alpha-particle scattering experiment (Gold Foil Experiment). He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1908.
Key Takeaway: J.J. Thomson is credited with the discovery of the electron, the first subatomic particle to be identified, for which he received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1906.