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why do atoms bond with each other to form bonds

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Answered by GPT 3.5
Atoms bond with each other to form bonds because they seek to achieve a more stable electron configuration. Atoms have a tendency to either gain, lose, or share electrons in order to fill their outermost energy level, also known as the valence shell. This is because a filled valence shell is more energetically favorable and results in a lower overall energy state for the atom.

There are mainly three types of bonds that atoms can form:

1. Ionic Bonds: In ionic bonding, one atom transfers one or more electrons to another atom, resulting in oppositely charged ions. The electrostatic attraction between these ions holds them together in a bond. An example is the bonding between a metal and a non-metal, such as sodium chloride (NaCl).

2. Covalent Bonds: In covalent bonding, atoms share electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration. This type of bonding usually occurs between non-metal atoms. The shared electrons are counted towards the valence shells of both atoms, allowing them to complete their valence shells and become more stable. Examples include molecules like water (H2O) and methane (CH4).

3. Metallic Bonds: Metallic bonding occurs in metals, where the valence electrons are delocalized, meaning they are not associated with any particular atom but can move freely between multiple atoms. This creates a "sea" of electrons, resulting in strong attractions among the positive metal ions and the delocalized electrons.

In summary, atoms bond to form chemical bonds in order for each atom to achieve a more stable electron configuration by either transferring, sharing, or delocalizing electrons.

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