What particles make up the nucleus of an atom?

The nucleus of an atom is composed of protons and neutrons, which are collectively known as nucleons. Protons carry a positive charge, while neutrons are neutral and do not have any charge. This combination of particles is essential for understanding the atomic structure, as they contribute to the mass of the atom and determine the element's identity and stability.

The presence of protons in the nucleus defines the atomic number of an element, which is a crucial factor in determining the element's chemical properties. Neutrons play a vital role in stabilizing the nucleus by mitigating the repulsive forces between the positively charged protons. The balance of these two types of particles influences the isotope of the element, which can affect its stability and the types of nuclear reactions it may undergo.

Therefore, recognizing that the nucleus consists specifically of protons and neutrons provides the foundational understanding needed to explore more complex topics in nuclear physics and chemistry.