Problem 1.1: Why do atoms form bonds Your answer should

From Chapter 1 Problem Set. Level 1: Conceptual Mastery.

Question

Why do atoms form bonds? Your answer should reference lower total energy, not attraction alone.

Answer

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Atoms bond when the resulting arrangement places the combined system at a lower total energy than the separated atoms. Incomplete valence shells are high-energy states; bonding allows atoms to fill or empty their outer shells and settle into stability.