* Protons: Positively charged particles found in the nucleus of an atom.
* Electrons: Negatively charged particles that orbit the nucleus.
When the number of protons and electrons are equal, the positive charges from the protons are perfectly balanced by the negative charges from the electrons. This creates a net charge of zero, making the atom electrically neutral.
Important Note: Atoms can gain or lose electrons, becoming ions. If an atom loses electrons, it becomes positively charged (cation). If it gains electrons, it becomes negatively charged (anion). However, in its natural, neutral state, the number of protons and electrons are equal.
