Nucleus of an atom

The nucleus of an atom is the small, dense core at its center, composed of protons and neutrons. Protons are positively charged particles, while neutrons have no charge. Together, they give the atom its mass and help determine its identity (element). The nucleus is tightly packed and makes up most of the atom's mass, despite being only a tiny fraction of its overall size. It is held together by powerful forces called nuclear forces that keep protons and neutrons bound together, making the atom stable.