Compare the properties of electrons, protons and neutrons.

Electrons:
1. Charge: Electrons carry a fundamental negative charge (-1.6 x 10^-19 coulombs), which is equal in magnitude but opposite in sign to the positive charge of protons.
2. Mass: Electrons have a significantly smaller mass compared to protons and neutrons. Their mass is approximately 9.109 x 10^-31 kilograms, roughly 1/1836 times the mass of a proton or neutron.
3. Location: Electrons are distributed around the atomic nucleus in specific energy levels or shells. They occupy orbitals within these energy levels based on their energy and quantum states.
4. Behavior: Electrons play a vital role in chemical reactions and bonding. Their movement between energy levels determines an atom’s reactivity and ability to form chemical bonds.

Protons:
1. Charge: Protons carry a positive charge equal in magnitude to the negative charge of electrons (+1.6 x 10^-19 coulombs). This positive charge defines the identity of an atom.
2. Mass: Protons have a relatively larger mass compared to electrons. Their mass is approximately 1.673 x 10^-27 kilograms, similar to the mass of neutrons.
3. Location: Protons are located within the atomic nucleus, densely packed at the center of the atom.
4. Role: The number of protons in an atom’s nucleus determines its atomic number, identifying the element. Protons also contribute to the stability of the nucleus through the electromagnetic force.

Neutrons:
1. Charge: Neutrons are electrically neutral, meaning they have no net charge. They do not possess any positive or negative charge.
2. Mass: Neutrons have a mass similar to that of protons. Their mass is approximately 1.675 x 10^-27 kilograms.
3. Location: Neutrons, like protons, are situated within the atomic nucleus, alongside protons.
4. Role: Neutrons play a crucial role in maintaining the stability of the atomic nucleus. They help bind protons together through the strong nuclear force, preventing the electromagnetic repulsion between positively charged protons.

In summary, electrons, protons, and neutrons are fundamental particles with distinct properties. They contribute to an atom’s structure, properties, and behavior, with electrons determining chemical behavior, protons defining the element’s identity, and neutrons contributing to nuclear stability.