Why do atoms exchange or share electrons during bonding

Answer 1

Atoms exchange or share electrons during bonding in order to achieve a more stable electron configuration. Atoms have a tendency to fill their outermost energy level (valence shell) with electrons. By exchanging or sharing electrons with another atom, they can achieve a full valence shell, which is typically 8 electrons for most atoms (known as the octet rule).

When atoms have fewer or more than a full valence shell, they tend to be less stable and more reactive. By bonding with other atoms, they can achieve a more stable electron configuration and reduce their reactivity. This can be done through different types of bonding, such as ionic bonding (where electrons are transferred between atoms) or covalent bonding (where electrons are shared between atoms).

Overall, atoms exchange or share electrons during bonding to achieve a more stable electron configuration, which is energetically favorable and reduces their reactivity.