What surrounds the central nucleus of an atom?

The central nucleus of an atom is surrounded by electrons, which occupy regions of space known as electron shells or orbitals. These electrons are negatively charged and are attracted to the positively charged protons located in the nucleus. This balance of positive and negative charges is what maintains the structure of the atom, as the electrons are held in place by this electrostatic attraction.

Protons and neutrons compose the nucleus itself, but they do not surround it. Nucleons refer collectively to protons and neutrons as they exist within the nucleus; therefore, they, too, do not surround the nucleus. The electron cloud that surrounds the nucleus is essential in determining the atom's chemical properties and behavior during reactions, making the presence of electrons crucial to understanding atomic structure.