Eli’s Mind

What are chemical bonds? Chemical is a lasting attraction between atoms or ions that enables the formation of molecules, crystals, and other compounds. Within nature there are 3 different forms of bonding depending on the atoms interacting and it is crucial for a student to be able identify, compare and contrast these bonds.

First is ionic bonds, this bond is created when two atoms, one which lost and electron, and one that gained electrons are attracted to each other by the influence of EM forces. Second is metallic bonds, this bond only takes place between metals, and occur because of the metal’s weakly held valence electrons causing them to easily dislodge leaving behind a positive ion. These dislodged electrons then flow like liquid around the positive ions, holding them together. Lastly we have covalent bonds, usually taking place between two nonmetal atoms, this bond is when two atoms share electrons forming a covalent compound. What can one differ between these 3 types od bonds?

First is the force of attraction or what is keeping the atoms together. Ionic bonds hold atoms within proximity with the help of EM forces which is caused by the atoms’ two completely different charges. Covalent bonds link atoms together with the help of the electrostatic attraction between the negatively charged valence electrons and the two positively charged nuclei. Metallic bonds also use electrons and nuclei but the electrons take the form of a liquid closing in on the nuclei. Despite all the different bonds using various and unique ways to hold certain groups of atoms on the periodic table together, they all share one aspect in common and that is they all create EM force from the similar negative electrons and positive protons.