atomic particles

Atomic particles are the fundamental components that make up matter. The main particles are protons, which have a positive electric charge and reside in the nucleus (center) of an atom; neutrons, which have no charge and also are in the nucleus; and electrons, negatively charged particles that orbit the nucleus in regions called electron clouds. The number of protons determines an element's identity, while protons and neutrons together contribute to an atom's mass. These particles interact through fundamental forces, shaping the behavior and properties of all substances around us.