Final answer:
Subatomic particles include protons with a positive charge, neutrons with no charge, and electrons with a negative charge; these differ in mass and their location within the atom.
Step-by-step explanation:
Subatomic particles are distinguished by three primary factors: charge, mass, and location within an atom. Protons have a positive electric charge, are relatively massive, and are located in the nucleus of an atom. Neutrons are neutral in charge, almost equal in mass to protons, and also reside in the nucleus. Electrons have a negative electric charge, much smaller mass, and orbit around the nucleus at high speeds. The number of protons in the nucleus determines the chemical element, while the electrons balance the charge of protons to make the atom electrically neutral.