When we say that subatomic particles have a charge, we are referring to an intrinsic property of those particles that determines their interaction with electric and magnetic fields. The charge of a subatomic particle can be positive, negative, or neutral.
The three fundamental subatomic particles that possess charge are:
Protons: Protons carry a positive charge. They have a charge of +1 elementary charge (e), which is approximately 1.602 x 10^-19 coulombs (C). Protons are found in the nucleus of an atom and contribute to its positive charge.
Electrons: Electrons carry a negative charge. They have a charge of -1 elementary charge (e), which is equal in magnitude but opposite in sign to the proton's charge. Electrons orbit around the nucleus of an atom, and their movement creates electrical currents.
Neutrons: Neutrons have no electric charge and are considered neutral. They do not contribute to the electrical properties of an atom. Neutrons, along with protons, are found in the nucleus of an atom.
It's important to note that the charges of protons and electrons are equal in magnitude but opposite in sign. This balance of positive and negative charges in an atom is what allows it to be electrically neutral overall.
The interaction between charged particles is governed by electromagnetic forces. Positively charged particles are attracted to negatively charged particles, while particles with the same charge repel each other. This interaction is responsible for various phenomena, such as the formation of chemical bonds, the behavior of electric currents, and the properties of electromagnetic radiation, including light.
It's also worth mentioning that there are other types of subatomic particles, such as neutrinos and quarks, which have no electric charge or have fractional charges. However, these particles do not directly contribute to the electrical properties of matter in the same way that protons and electrons do.