What are the three types of leptons?

The three types of leptons are indeed the electronic, muonic, and tauonic. These classifications correspond to the three known flavors of leptons in the Standard Model of particle physics.

The electron is the most commonly known lepton, with a charge of -1 and a relatively small mass. It is a fundamental particle that plays a critical role in electromagnetic interactions and chemical bonding.

The muon is similar to the electron but is approximately 200 times more massive. It is also charged and behaves like a heavier version of the electron, participating in weak interactions.

The tau lepton is even heavier than the muon and is also a charged particle. All three of these leptons share similar properties but differ in mass and, consequently, their interactions and lifetimes.

On the other hand, the other options contain particles that do not fit into the lepton category. Protons and neutrons are baryons, quarks are elementary particles that combine to form protons and neutrons, and photons are gauge bosons responsible for electromagnetic force. Thus, the correct classification of leptons is found in the first choice.