How Atoms Connect

Atoms rarely exist alone; they love to connect with other atoms to form compounds. This connection is called chemical bonding, and there are three main types: ionic, covalent, and metallic.

• Ionic bonds form when atoms transfer electrons. One atom gives up an electron (becoming positive), and another gains an electron (becoming negative). These charged particles (ions) stick together like magnets.
• Covalent bonds happen when atoms share electrons, creating a strong link between them.
• Metallic bonds involve a 'sea' of shared electrons swimming around metal atoms, giving metals their shiny and flexible properties.

Making Compounds

Compounds are substances made from two or more different elements bonded together. Water (\( H_2O \)) is a classic example, made of hydrogen and oxygen.

Everyday Impact

Chemical bonding explains why salt dissolves in water, why diamonds are so hard, and why metals can conduct electricity.