* Protons: Positively charged particles found in the nucleus of the atom. The number of protons determines the element.
* Neutrons: Neutrally charged particles also found in the nucleus of the atom. They contribute to the atom's mass but not its charge.
* Electrons: Negatively charged particles that orbit the nucleus in a cloud. They are much smaller and lighter than protons and neutrons.
So, when you say "particle of atom", you could be referring to any of these three.
To be more specific, you could ask about:
* The particles that make up the nucleus: Protons and neutrons
* The particles that orbit the nucleus: Electrons
* The particles that are involved in chemical bonding: Electrons, specifically those in the outermost energy level (valence electrons)
Let me know if you have a specific particle in mind, and I can give you more information about it!