What is the charge of an electron?

The charge of an electron is classified as a negative charge. This fundamental property is essential in the field of physics and chemistry, as it plays a significant role in the formation of atoms and the behavior of matter. Electrons, being subatomic particles, have a charge that is equal in magnitude but opposite in sign to that of protons, which possess a positive charge. This negative charge allows electrons to be attracted to positively charged protons in the nucleus of an atom, contributing to the overall stability of the atom.

Understanding the negative charge of electrons is vital for grasping concepts in various scientific fields, including electricity, where the flow of electrons constitutes electric current. This principle also underpins our understanding of chemical bonding, as the arrangement of electrons can determine how atoms interact with one another to form molecules. The negative charge characteristic of electrons also explains their role in phenomena like electricity and magnetism, influencing how they behave under various conditions.