Where is a proton found in an atom?

A proton is found in the nucleus of an atom. The nucleus is the core central part of an atom, and it is composed of protons and neutrons. Protons carry a positive charge, which plays a crucial role in defining the atomic number of an element. The atomic number determines the identity of the element, as it corresponds to the number of protons found in a neutral atom. The protons in the nucleus are held together by strong nuclear forces, overcoming the repulsive forces between the positively charged protons.

In contrast, the electron cloud surrounds the nucleus and contains electrons, which are negatively charged particles that occupy various energy levels or shells around the nucleus. The outer shell and the valence layer are terms that refer to the positioning of electrons rather than protons, highlighting their roles in chemical bonding and reactions. Therefore, the correct location for protons in an atom is indeed within the nucleus.