2nd Solvay Conference on Physics, 1913
The 1st Conference on Physics (1911) gives rise to a discussion on the role of the quantum of action in the constitution of the atom. Strangely, Ernest Rutherford chooses not to say anything about the recent experiments that confirm the hypothesis of the atomic nucleus: he awaits new elements before criticizing Joseph J. Thomson’s atomic model.
During the 2nd Conference on Physics (1913), Ernest Rutherford decides to react and a discussion ensues on the issue of whether or not the atom contains a nucleus (with a positive charge and of an extremely small size)?
The answer to this question surfaces at the 1921 Conference, after the publication of Niels Bohr’s work, when Ernest Rutherford presents a report on the structure of the atom.
