- Protons are positively charged particles located in the nucleus of the atom. The number of protons in an atom determines its atomic number and its chemical identity.
- Neutrons are neutral particles located in the nucleus of the atom. They have no electric charge and their mass is slightly greater than that of protons.
- Electrons are negatively charged particles that orbit the nucleus of the atom in specific shells or energy levels. Electrons are much less massive than protons and neutrons. The arrangement of electrons in these shells determines the atom's chemical properties and behavior.
