What is the charge of an electron?

Electrons are subatomic particles that carry a fundamental electric charge. The charge of an electron is defined as negative, with a value of approximately -1.6 x 10^-19 coulombs. This negative charge is essential to the structure of atoms, as it balances the positive charge of protons found in the nucleus. Electrons are located in various energy levels or shells around the nucleus, contributing to the atom's overall charge and behavior in chemical reactions. Understanding that electrons have a negative charge is fundamental to grasping concepts such as electric forces, ionic bonding, and the interactions between atoms in chemical compounds.