Question

Summarize the observed properties of cathode rays that led to the discovery of the electron.

a) Cathode rays are positively charged and deflected by a magnetic field, suggesting the presence of protons.
b) Cathode rays are negatively charged and deflected by a magnetic field, suggesting the presence of electrons.
c) Cathode rays are neutral and not affected by magnetic fields, suggesting the absence of charged particles.
d) Cathode rays have variable charges, suggesting the presence of both protons and electrons.

Answer 1

Cathode rays are negatively charged and deflected by a magnetic field, suggesting the presence of electrons. J.J. Thomson's experiments led to the discovery of the electron as a fundamental component of all atoms.

Step-by-step explanation:

Cathode rays are negatively charged and deflected by a magnetic field, suggesting the presence of electrons. J.J. Thomson's experiments with cathode rays demonstrated that these particles had a net negative charge and a mass-to-charge ratio that was independent of the nature of the metal electrodes or the gas. This led to the discovery of the electron as a fundamental component of all atoms.