What does the term 'Dalton' refer to in the context of atomic theory?

The term 'Dalton' in the context of atomic theory refers to a unit of atomic mass. This unit is named after the British scientist John Dalton, who is known for his work in developing atomic theory in the early 19th century. Dalton's atomic theory proposed that matter is composed of indivisible atoms and that all atoms of a given element are identical in mass and properties, which laid the groundwork for modern chemistry.

The concept of atomic mass itself is essential in chemistry, as it allows scientists to quantify and compare the mass of different atoms. One Dalton is defined as one twelfth of the mass of a carbon-12 atom, providing a standard for measuring the masses of other atomic species. This atomic mass unit is crucial for calculating chemical reactions and understanding molecular structures.

Understanding this term and its implications in atomic theory is vital for grasping the foundational concepts of chemistry and how different elements interact and combine during chemical reactions.