What particle was discovered as a result of Thomson's experiments?

Thomson's experiments, particularly his work with cathode rays, led to the discovery of the electron. In these experiments, he observed that cathode rays were deflected by electric and magnetic fields, which indicated that they were composed of particles that had a negative charge. This was a groundbreaking finding because it was the first time anyone had identified a subatomic particle, fundamentally changing the understanding of atomic structure.

The electron was determined to be much smaller than any atom and was essential in the development of atomic theory. Thomson's findings laid the groundwork for future research into the nature of atoms and the development of modern physics, leading to a deeper understanding of how matter is composed and how it behaves. The knowledge of the electron's existence has been crucial in many fields, including chemistry and electronics, making it a pivotal moment in scientific history.