By means of experiments, scientists have discovered that even the tiny
atom is made up of smaller pieces -- electrons, protons, and
neutrons. These subatomic particles are known as elementary particles. They cannot be broken down into smaller components and are considered fundamental building blocks of matter.
Electrons are negatively charged particles that orbit around the nucleus of an atom. They have a negligible mass compared to protons and neutrons. Protons, on the other hand, are positively charged particles found in the nucleus of an atom. They have a mass that is approximately 1,836 times greater than that of an electron. Neutrons are neutral particles also found in the nucleus of an atom, and they have a mass similar to that of a proton.
The arrangement of electrons, protons, and neutrons determines the properties of an atom. The number of protons in the nucleus defines the element, while the number of electrons determines the atom's charge. Neutrons help stabilize the nucleus and contribute to the isotope of an element.
Further study of subatomic particles has led to the discovery of even smaller constituent particles, such as quarks and leptons. Quarks are believed to be the building blocks of protons and neutrons, while leptons include elementary particles like electrons and neutrinos.
Understanding the composition of atoms and unraveling the mysteries of subatomic particles has contributed to advancements in physics, chemistry, and technology. It has also expanded our knowledge of the fundamental nature of matter and the universe as a whole.