What orbits around the nucleus of an atom?

Electrons are the subatomic particles that orbit around the nucleus of an atom. They are negatively charged and are found in specific energy levels or shells surrounding the positively charged nucleus, which contains protons and neutrons. The behavior of electrons in these orbits is governed by quantum mechanics and plays a crucial role in the chemical properties of an atom, including how it bonds with other atoms.

Protons are located within the nucleus and have a positive charge, while neutrons, also found in the nucleus, are neutral. Quarks are fundamental constituents of protons and neutrons but do not orbit the nucleus; rather, they are confined within these subatomic particles. This understanding of atomic structure is key to grasping more complex concepts in chemistry and physics.