Electron: Definition, Quarks, and Charge

Introduction

• The electron is one of the fundamental particles that make up atoms.
• It is a negatively charged subatomic particle that orbits the nucleus of an atom.

Structure of an Electron

• Unlike protons and neutrons, electrons are not composed of quarks.
• Electrons are considered elementary particles, meaning they have no known substructure or constituents.

Electric Charge of an Electron

• The electron carries a fundamental electric charge of -1 elementary charge (e).
• The elementary charge (e) is approximately equal to -1.602 x 10^-19 Coulombs (C).

Calculating the Electric Charge of an Electron

• The charge of an electron is simply represented as -e.

Significance of Electron Charge

• The negative charge of electrons is essential for creating electric currents, bonding atoms together, and determining the behaviour of matter at the atomic and molecular levels.
• Electrons are involved in chemical reactions and play a vital role in electricity and electronics.