* Proton: +1 (positive)

* Neutron: 0 (neutral)

* Electron: -1 (negative)

Key Points:

* Opposite Charges Attract: Protons and electrons have opposite charges, which is why they are attracted to each other. This attraction holds atoms together.

* Neutrality: Atoms are typically neutral because the number of protons (positive charges) is equal to the number of electrons (negative charges).

* Ions: When an atom gains or loses electrons, it becomes an ion with a net positive or negative charge.