Niels Bohr's development of the quantum theory of the atom and the correspondence principle (his 1912–1923 work in atomic physics and its significance)

Niels Bohr's studies on the quantum theory of the atom over the years 1912–1923 are discussed. The sources of his work on these questions are analyzed. The beginning of his quantum studies in 1912 is described. His famous paper on the theory of the hydrogen atom and on the origin of spectra is analyzed in detail. The subsequent development of his ideas regarding atomic structure is discussed, with an emphasis on his postulates regarding stationary states and radiative transitions and on the development of the correspondence principle. How well he understood the difficulties of the model theory and how he strived for a profound understanding of quantum phenomena are shown.