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 |


