Electrons, protons, and neutrons are subatomic particles that make up atoms. Electrons are negatively charged and have a negligible mass compared to protons and neutrons. Protons are positively charged and reside in the nucleus. Neutrons are neutral and also reside in the nucleus. These particles determine the properties of elements, including their atomic mass and chemical behavior.
Here’s a more detailed comparison:
Charge:
Electrons: Carry a negative charge (-1).
Protons: Carry a positive charge (+1).
Neutrons: Have no charge (neutral).
Location in the Atom:
Electrons: Found outside the nucleus, orbiting around it.
Protons and Neutrons: Located within the nucleus of the atom.
Mass:
Electrons: Have a very small mass, approximately 1/1836 of a proton’s mass.
Protons: Have a mass that is nearly 2000 times that of an electron.
Neutrons: Have a mass almost equal to that of protons, making them slightly heavier than electrons.