What is a bond?

Atoms can be modelled as point positive charges with clouds of electrons around them. When two atoms come together close enough, a region of higher electron density forms between the two atoms. This means that there are more electrons in between the two nuclei than expected from bare atoms. Thus an equilibrium position is reached, which maximises 'gains' from proton-electron interactions and minimises 'loses' from proton-proton and electron-electron interactions. The arrangement when two atoms are at these equilibrium positions is what we call a molecule. And a bond is the region of heightened electron density between them. (I could include a 6-12 plot here).

RE
Answered by Rokas E. Chemistry tutor

2637 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is an enthalpy change?


What is the acid dissociation constant, Ka of the 0.150 mol dm–3 solution of weak acid HA with pH of 2.34?


How can I use an infrared spectrum with a mass spectrum to identify an unknown compound?


What is the geometry of a BF3 molecule?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning