An electron is a tiny, negatively charged particle that orbits the nucleus of an atom. Atoms are the building blocks of matter, and electrons play a crucial role in chemical reactions and electricity. They are much smaller than protons and neutrons, which are found in the nucleus, and their movement helps create electric currents that power our devices. Electrons are essential for understanding many concepts in physics and chemistry. For example, they are involved in the formation of chemical bonds between atoms, which leads to the creation of molecules like water and carbon dioxide. Their behavior is also key to technologies such as semiconductors and lasers.