The document discusses the structure and composition of atoms. Atoms are the smallest units that make up elements and compounds. They contain protons, neutrons and electrons. Protons are positively charged particles in the nucleus, neutrons have no charge, and electrons are negatively charged particles that orbit the nucleus. Different elements have different numbers of these subatomic particles. Atoms can exist alone or combine to form molecules. Living things are composed of complex nonliving molecules made up of atoms.