DIY: Models of Rutherford's Theory

Rutherford's structure of the atom states that it has a central nucleus surrounded by electron orbitals.

Rutherford's Theory deals with the composition and structure of the atom. Unlike previous theories which had the parts of the atom floating freely in a mass, Rutherford believed that electrons of the atom moved in orbital patterns around a central, tightly packed nucleus. His theory separated the electrons and the protons in the atom and established a positively charged nucleus. A model of this theory can be constructed with a trip to your local craft or bead store.

Things You'll Need

• Polystyrene foam ball
• Roll of jewelry wire
• 6 to 10 Blue beads
• 2 Packages of green felt balls
• 3 Packages red felt balls
• Hot glue gun
• Wire cutters
• Package of plastic earring stoppers

Instructions

1. Hot glue the green and red felt balls over the surface of the polystyrene foam ball. Make sure to alternate the two colors and cover the surface of the ball entirely. Allow the glue to dry completely. The red and green balls represent the protons and neutrons.

2. Cut six equal lengths of the jewelry wire. Ensure that the pieces are at least double the circumference of the foam ball. The wires need to be long enough to circle, but not touch the ball.

3. String one blue bead onto each of the wires in any location. Put one or two of the plastic earring backs on each side of the bead to secure it in place. These beads represent the electrons.

4. Bend each beaded wire into a circle, twisting the two ends together. Make sure that all sharp ends are pressed down to prevent any cuts or scrapes.

5. Place the foam ball on a flat surface in the center of one of the circles. Measure the distance from the edge of ball to the beaded wire.

6. Cut 12 strips of the jewelry wire. The strips should be a little more than double the distance from the ball to the wire.

7. With one of the beaded wire circles surrounding the foam ball, insert one of the wire strips into the ball, wrap it twice over the beaded wire and insert the other end into the foam ball. Repeat this process directly opposite of the first inserted wire. Repeat this step with each beaded wire. The smaller wires will hold the "orbital" shape of the beaded wires.

Tips & Warnings

• If the wires won't stay in the foam ball, put a little hot glue over each of the wires to secure them.

• Each of the different colors represents a different part of the atom, so make sure only three colors are used.

References

• Encyclopedia Britannica: Rutherford Atomic Model