Which scientific theory did John Dalton significantly contribute to?

John Dalton made significant contributions to the atomic theory of matter in the early 19th century. His work laid the foundation for modern chemistry by proposing that all matter is made up of atoms, which are indivisible and indestructible particles. Dalton's theory also introduced the idea that atoms of different elements have unique weights and that they combine in specific ratios to form compounds. These principles helped to explain the laws of chemical combination and provided a systematic approach to understanding chemical reactions.

Dalton's atomic theory was groundbreaking because it shifted the scientific perspective from understanding matter as being composed of continuous substances to recognizing the role of discrete, individual atoms, setting the stage for future research in chemistry and physics. This theory remains a crucial aspect of our understanding of matter and its interactions today.