What charge do protons carry?

Protons carry a positive charge, specifically a charge of +1. This characteristic is fundamental to understanding atomic structure. Protons, which are found in the nucleus of an atom, play a crucial role in determining the atomic number of an element, which in turn defines the element itself. The positive charge of protons also helps to balance the negative charge of electrons that orbit the nucleus, maintaining the overall electrical neutrality of most atoms.

Understanding the charge of protons is essential for grasping concepts such as ions, isotopes, and the behavior of atoms in chemical reactions, where the interactions between positively charged protons and negatively charged electrons lead to the formation of molecules and compounds.