Protons and neutrons are found in the nucleus of an atom. The nucleus is the dense, central part of an atom, while electrons orbit around it. Protons carry a positive charge, and the number of protons defines the atomic number of an element. Neutrons, which have no charge, contribute to an atom’s mass. Together, protons and neutrons are often referred to as nucleons. Their interactions determine the overall stability and isotopic characteristics of the atom, playing critical roles in nuclear reactions and the behavior of elements.