Which three components make up an atom?

An atom is the fundamental unit of matter and consists of three primary components: protons, neutrons, and electrons. Protons are positively charged particles found in the nucleus of the atom, while neutrons are neutral particles that also reside in the nucleus. Electrons are negatively charged particles that orbit the nucleus in various energy levels or shells. This combination of protons, neutrons, and electrons gives an atom its distinct properties and stability.

It’s important to note that while ions are charged atoms, they are not a fundamental component of an atom; rather, they are formed when an atom gains or loses electrons. Photons, on the other hand, are particles of light and do not make up an atom. Quarks are subatomic particles that combine to form protons and neutrons, but they are not directly considered a part of an atom in the same way as protons, neutrons, and electrons. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for grasping the basic structure of matter.