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How atoms bond - George Zaidan and Charles Morton

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Atoms can (and do) bond constantly; it's how they form molecules. Sometimes, in an atomic tug-of-war, one atom pulls electrons from another, forming an ionic bond. Atoms can also play nicely and share electrons in a covalent bond. From simple oxygen to complex human chromosome 13, George Zaidan and Charles Morton break down the humble chemical bond.

Draw a molecule of hydrogen gas (H2). Using what you know about positive and negative charges, sketch all the forces between all the particles in this system. Does it seem reasonable to you that the hydrogen gas molecule should exist and be relatively stable, based on your sketch? Does your sketch raise any new questions about the nature of covalent bonding?

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