Which of the following statements is true regarding protons?

Protons are subatomic particles located within the nucleus of an atom and are essential for determining the positive charge of the nucleus. Each proton carries a positive charge, which contributes to the overall charge of the nucleus. This positive charge is crucial as it helps to attract negatively charged electrons, allowing atoms to maintain their structure and stability.

In contrast, protons are not found outside the nucleus, they possess mass—albeit significantly less than that of neutrons or protons—and they are not negatively charged; these characteristics are associated with electrons instead. Thus, the statement that protons contribute positively to the charge of the nucleus is accurate and reflects their fundamental role in atomic structure.