* Proton: 1.67262 × 10^-27 kg
* Neutron: 1.67493 × 10^-27 kg
* Electron: 9.10938 × 10^-31 kg
Key points:
* Protons and neutrons are about 1836 times heavier than electrons. This means a proton or neutron has roughly the same mass as 1836 electrons.
* The mass of the nucleus is primarily determined by protons and neutrons, as the electrons contribute very little to the overall mass of an atom.
This difference in mass is crucial for understanding atomic structure and behavior:
* Nucleus: Protons and neutrons are tightly packed in the nucleus, forming the atom's core and determining its atomic mass.
* Electron Cloud: Electrons orbit the nucleus at much greater distances, contributing to the atom's size and chemical properties.
