State the relative charges of protons, neutrons and electrons as +1, 0 and -1 respectively

5.1.2 The Nucleus

What is the Nucleus?

Think of the nucleus as the heart of an atom, where most of its mass sits. Inside the nucleus, we find protons, neutrons and, a bit farther out, electrons orbiting like planets.

ParticleCharge (relative)Analogy
Proton\$+1\$Like a positive magnet 🧲
Neutron\$0\$Neutral – no charge ⚖️
Electron\$-1\$Like a negative magnet 🧲

Exam Tip 🚀

When you see a question about the charge of a particle, remember the simple code: Proton = +1, Neutron = 0, Electron = -1. A quick mnemonic: Protons are Positive, Neutrons are Neutral, Electrons are Negative.

  • Protons carry a positive charge of \$+1\$.

  • Neutrons have no charge (\$0\$).

  • Electrons carry a negative charge of \$-1\$.

  • All charges are relative to the electron charge.