Which of the following conclusions could not be derived from Rutherford's α-particle scattering experiment?
(a) Most of the space in the atom is empty.
(b) The radius of the atom is about 10 -10 m while that of nucleus is 10 -15 m.
(c) Electrons move in a circular path of fixed energy called orbits.
(d) Electrons and the nucleus are held together by electrostatic forces of attraction.
The answer is the option (c)
Electrons move in a circular path of fixed energy called orbits because it does not explain anything about an atom’s stability, it’s electronic structures, their energies, and distribution around the nucleus.