Gluon

Gluons are particles that hold together other particles. Think of them like invisible glue or a glue gun. They allow heavier particles, like protons and neutrons, to stick together to form other heavier particles. The protons and neutrons are made up of smaller particles called quarks, and the gluons hold them together. This means that when gluons do their job well, then the particles that they hold together stay together!