Which particles are known to have a negative charge?

The particles known to have a negative charge are electrons. Electrons are fundamental subatomic particles that exist in the shells surrounding the nucleus of an atom. They carry a negative charge, which is a crucial aspect of their behavior in electricity and chemical bonding. This negative charge helps to create electromagnetic interactions with positively charged protons in atoms, contributing to the structure of matter.

Protons carry a positive charge, which is opposite to that of electrons. Neutrons do not have any charge at all; they are neutral particles found in the nucleus alongside protons. Muons are similar to electrons in that they are also negatively charged, but they are not as commonly discussed in basic chemistry contexts and are part of family of particles known as leptons. In introductory chemistry, it is essential to focus on the role of electrons in understanding chemical behavior and atomic structure.