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Electron

Subatomic particle with a negative electric charge.

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An electron is a subatomic particle with a negative electric charge. It orbits the nucleus of an atom and plays a crucial role in chemical bonding and electrical conductivity.

Pronunciation

/ɪˈlektrɒn/

Etymology

The term 'electron' was coined by William Thomson in 1891, derived from the Greek word for amber (elektron) due to its electrical properties.

Explain Like I’m 5

Electrons are tiny particles that zoom around atoms and have a negative electrical charge, like little magnets with the wrong end!

Fun Facts

Electrons are much smaller than atoms
Electrons were initially thought of as particles, but quantum mechanics shows they also behave like waves
The movement of electrons creates electricity

FAQ

What is an electron? It's a subatomic particle with a negative electric charge
Where are electrons found? They orbit the nucleus of an atom
What determines an element's properties? The number and arrangement of electrons

Hypernyms — Broader Categories

lepton subatomic particle

Holonyms — Wholes or Groups

atom matter

Indexes

fundamental particle negative state subatomic particle

Related

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