The discussion centers on whether an atom can exist without electrons. It is established that certain species, like hydrogen ions (H^+) and alpha particles (He^2+), can exist in a state devoid of electrons, effectively functioning as "electronless" entities. However, the distinction between an atom and a bare nucleus is emphasized, as an atom is defined as a neutral entity with a nucleus surrounded by electrons. The alpha particle, while often thought of as helium, is clarified to be a helium nucleus without electrons, thus not fitting the definition of an atom. The conversation also touches on the challenges of removing electrons from larger atoms and the conditions under which fully ionized states can be achieved, such as in high-energy physics labs or in natural phenomena like the sun. Overall, while it is technically possible to have entities without electrons, they do not qualify as atoms in the traditional sense.