An atom consists of a central nucleus, composed of protons and neutrons.
This is surrounded by electrons, orbiting in shells (energy levels).
Atoms are neutral because the numbers of electrons and protons are equal.
Mass | Charge | |
---|---|---|
Proton | 1 | +1 |
Neutron | 1 | 0 |
Electron | negligible (1/1836) | -1 |