Physics – 5.1.1 The atom | e-Consult
5.1.1 The atom (1 questions)
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An atom is composed of three main subatomic particles: protons, neutrons, and electrons.
- Protons: Located in the nucleus. They have a positive electrical charge (+1).
- Neutrons: Also located in the nucleus. They have no electrical charge (neutral).
- Electrons: Orbit the nucleus in specific energy levels or shells. They have a negative electrical charge (-1).
The atom is generally electrically neutral because it contains an equal number of protons and electrons. The positive charge of the protons in the nucleus is balanced by the negative charge of the electrons orbiting the nucleus. This equal and opposite charge results in a net charge of zero.