Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of electrons?

Electrons are indeed characterized by their negative charge, being fundamental particles that play a crucial role in the structure of atoms, and they significantly influence the chemical properties of elements through their arrangement in electron shells.

The correct answer highlights a key fact: electrons are not located in the nucleus of an atom; rather, they occupy regions outside the nucleus in what are known as electron clouds or orbitals. The nucleus contains protons and neutrons, whereas electrons exist in a different realm, contributing to the overall atomic structure, but separate from the nucleus itself. Understanding this distinction is fundamental to the study of atomic structure in physical science.