CONCLUSION
Before bringing this address to a close I wish once more to emphasize the complete analogy in the application of the quantum theory to the stability of the atom, used in explaining two so different phenomena as the periodic system and X-ray spectra. This point is of the greatest importance in judging the reality of the theory, since the justification for employing considerations, relating to the formation of atoms by successive capture of electrons, as a guiding principle for the investigation of atomic structure might appear doubtful if suchconsiderations could not be brought into natural agreement with views on the reorganization of the atom after a disturbance in the normal electronic arrangement. Even though a certain inner consistency in this view of atomic structure will be recognized, it is, however, hardly necessary for me to emphasize the incomplete character of the theory, not only as regards the elaboration of details, but also so far as the foundation of the general points of view is concerned. There seems, however, to be no other way of advance in atomic problems than that which hitherto has been followed, namely to let the work in these two directions go hand in hand.
[3]Address delivered before a joint meeting of the Physical and Chemical Societies in Copenhagen, October 18, 1921.
[3]Address delivered before a joint meeting of the Physical and Chemical Societies in Copenhagen, October 18, 1921.
[4]Nature, March 24, and October 13, 1921.
[4]Nature, March 24, and October 13, 1921.