Electron - GCSE Chemistry Definition

An electron is a tiny, negatively charged particle that orbits around the nucleus of an atom. Atoms are the basic building blocks of all matter, and each one is made up of a nucleus, which contains protons and neutrons, with electrons moving around this central nucleus. An electron has a negative charge (–1), and it plays a crucial role in chemical reactions and bonding. Electrons are the particles involved when atoms join together to form molecules. They are much smaller and lighter than protons and neutrons, which means they can move quickly and easily in comparison. Understanding electrons is important in chemistry because their arrangement in an atom determines how an element will react and interact with others.