Which subatomic particle carries a negative charge?

The subatomic particle that carries a negative charge is the electron. Electrons are fundamental charged particles found in atoms and play a critical role in chemical bonding and electricity. Each electron has a charge of approximately -1 elementary charge, which is a key characteristic that distinguishes them from protons and neutrons.

Protons, which are positively charged, are found in the nucleus of an atom along with neutrons, which carry no charge (they are neutral). Photons, on the other hand, are particles of light that are also neutral and do not carry any electrical charge. The unique negative charge of electrons is essential for their interactions with other charged particles, as it allows for the formation of atoms and the vast array of chemical and physical phenomena we observe.