Science Common Sense

174 - How do chemical bonds form?

Chemical bonds are formed when atoms share or exchange electrons to become stable.

Imagine atoms as people holding hands. Atoms have tiny particles called electrons that spin around their center. When two atoms have a full set of 'hands' (electrons), they're happy and stable.

But sometimes, an atom might have an empty 'hand' (not enough electrons), or too many 'hands' (extra electrons). To become stable, the atom shares or exchanges electrons with another atom.

There are three main types of chemical bonds: 1. Covalent bonds: Atoms share 'hands' (electrons) to become happy and stable. 2. Ionic bonds: One atom gives an extra 'hand' (electron) to another atom that needs it. 3. Hydrogen bonds: A weak bond formed when one atom shares a 'hand' (electron) with another atom, but they're still holding onto their own 'hands'.

When atoms form bonds, they stick together and create new things like water (H2O) or tables and chairs (molecules made from wood and other materials).