Robert Boyle is not directly credited with contributions to the development of atomic theory. While he was a significant figure in the scientific revolution, his main contributions were in the realm of chemistry and physics.

Here's why Boyle isn't associated with atomic theory:

* Focus on Elements and Compounds: Boyle is famous for his work on the properties of elements and compounds. His book, "The Sceptical Chymist" (1661), challenged the traditional four-element theory and paved the way for a more modern understanding of chemical substances. However, this work did not directly address the nature of matter at its smallest level (atoms).

* Boyle's Law: Boyle's most significant scientific contribution is Boyle's Law, which describes the relationship between the pressure and volume of a gas at constant temperature. This law is a fundamental principle in physics, but it doesn't deal with the internal structure of matter.

* Atomic Theory Emerged Later: The concept of atoms as fundamental particles was first proposed by Democritus in ancient Greece. However, it wasn't until the late 18th and early 19th centuries that John Dalton developed the first comprehensive atomic theory.

In conclusion, while Robert Boyle was a groundbreaking scientist, his work focused on the properties of substances, not the internal structure of matter. Therefore, he is not considered a direct contributor to the development of atomic theory.