What particles are atoms made of?

Atoms are fundamental units of matter and are made up of three primary types of subatomic particles: neutrons, protons, and electrons. Neutrons and protons reside in the nucleus at the center of the atom. Neutrons carry no charge, while protons have a positive charge. This combination of neutrons and protons determines the atomic mass and identity of the element. Electrons, which have a negative charge, orbit around the nucleus in various energy levels. The balance of protons and electrons dictates the atom's overall charge.

Understanding the composition of atoms is essential because these particles also play a crucial role in chemical reactions, bonding, and the properties of materials, including those relevant to marine environments and corrosion processes.