In atomic physics, which scientist is credited with the experimental discovery of the electron using cathode ray tube experiments in 1897?

Introduction / Context:
The discovery of the electron was a fundamental step in understanding the structure of atoms and the nature of electricity. It showed that atoms are not indivisible but contain smaller charged particles. This question asks you to remember which scientist is credited with the experimental discovery of the electron through cathode ray tube experiments in 1897, a classic fact in physics and general science exams.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The focus is on the experimental discovery of the electron.
• The key tool was the cathode ray tube.
• The year given is 1897.
• We must choose the correct scientist from a list of well-known names.

Concept / Approach:
Cathode rays are streams of particles observed in evacuated glass tubes when a high voltage is applied between electrodes. J. J. Thomson studied these rays and showed that they consisted of negatively charged particles much smaller than atoms. He measured their charge-to-mass ratio and concluded that they are universal components of matter, later named electrons. To answer the question, you must associate the cathode ray tube experiments and the year 1897 with J. J. Thomson, and not confuse him with other great scientists working in different fields.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Almost every physics textbook explicitly states that "J. J. Thomson discovered the electron in 1897 using cathode ray experiments." This statement is repeated in exam guides and competitive exam notes. Lavoisier is associated with the law of conservation of mass in chemistry, Mendeleev with the periodic table, and Max Born with quantum mechanics and mathematical physics. None of these names appear as the discoverer of the electron in standard references, confirming that Thomson is the correct choice.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Max Born contributed to the interpretation of quantum mechanics and received a Nobel Prize for his work, but he did not discover the electron. Antoine Lavoisier is called the "father of modern chemistry" yet worked long before the electron's discovery. Dmitri Mendeleev created the periodic table and predicted elements but did not identify subatomic particles. These scientists are important, but their achievements are unrelated to the cathode ray experiments that revealed the electron.

Common Pitfalls:
Some learners confuse different scientific milestones, such as mixing up the discovery of the proton, neutron, and electron. Others know the names but forget which person was associated with which experiment. To avoid these issues, link "cathode rays" and "1897" firmly with J. J. Thomson in your memory. Also remember that electrons were discovered first, then the nucleus and proton, and later the neutron, each credited to different scientists.

Final Answer:
The experimental discovery of the electron is credited to J. J. Thomson.