* Atoms are made up of protons, neutrons, and electrons.

* Protons have a positive (+) charge.

* Neutrons have no charge (they are neutral).

* Electrons have a negative (-) charge.

* In a neutral atom, the number of protons (positive charges) is equal to the number of electrons (negative charges). This balance of charges results in a net charge of zero.

Example:

A carbon atom has 6 protons and 6 electrons. The 6 positive charges from the protons are exactly canceled out by the 6 negative charges from the electrons, resulting in a neutral atom.

Important Note: While atoms are naturally neutral, they can gain or lose electrons to become ions.

* Cations are positively charged ions formed when an atom loses electrons.

* Anions are negatively charged ions formed when an atom gains electrons.