Electrons are subatomic particles that carry a negative electric charge. They are one of the fundamental components of an atom, alongside protons and neutrons. Electrons are located in the electron cloud, which surrounds the nucleus of the atom. Their behavior is governed by quantum mechanics, meaning their exact position and energy cannot be precisely determined at the same time, but are described by probability distributions.

The mass of an electron is extremely small—about 1/1836th of the mass of a proton. Despite this, electrons play a crucial role in chemical reactions, electricity, and the formation of bonds between atoms. They are responsible for electricity in conductors and the flow of charge in circuits.

Electrons also exhibit both particle and wave-like properties, a concept known as wave-particle duality. This dual nature is key to understanding their behavior in various physical phenomena, such as interference and diffraction.

In summary, electrons are essential to the structure of matter, the flow of electricity, and the interactions between atoms and molecules.