ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Atomic nucleus

The atomic nucleus is like the middle of an atom, kinda like the 'tummy' of the whole thing! It's made up of really, really tiny things called protons and neutrons.

Protons are positively charged and stick together in the nucleus, while neutrons are neutral and also hang out in there.

Together, the protons and neutrons make up most of the mass of an atom - like how the big part of a watermelon is the juicy insides!

The electrons, which are negatively charged, zoom around the outside of the nucleus, kinda like little bees buzzing around a hive.

The atomic nucleus is super important because it holds all the necessary pieces that determine what kind of atom it is - and atoms make up everything around us, like the air we breathe and the food we eat!