Protons, neutrons, and electrons all have an essential distinction from each other, that being their charges and characteristics.
Protons are positively charged, hence the "pro" prefix. In contrast to neutrons and electrons, the number of protons determine the atom's atomic number. A proton also has a mass of approximately 1 mass unit (amu).
Neutrons, like protons, have a mass of approximately 1 amu and are found in the nucleus of an atom; however, the difference is that neutrons have no charge, hence the "neu" (neutral) prefix.
Unlike protons and neutrons, electrons are found outside of the nucleus. They are negatively charged; they relate more to the atom's reactivity by being involved in chemical bonding. Electrons also are typically smaller in mass than protons and neutrons, considering it has a shell.
While protons, neutrons, and electrons have similarities, they are very well different from each other. They all play a crucial role in the function of an atom; it is significant to note the margin between the three.
