What is an atom made up of?

An atom is made up of electrons, protons and neutrons. Electrons have a negative charge (-1), protons have a postive charge (+1) and neutrons have a neutral charge.

Atoms must have a neutral charge so therefore, have an equal number of protons and electrons. (Ions are charged atoms so have different numbers of protons and electrons).

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Answered by Madeleine L. Chemistry tutor

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