Chapter 4

Atomic structure and chemical bonding

The idea that atoms are able to bond together to form molecules will be quite familiar to you by now. However, so far, nothing has been explained about this should happen. By taking a closer look at the basic structure common to all atoms and then at their electronic properties it will become possible for you to see why atoms of one element behave in a different way from those of any other kind. This chapter will also explain the several different ways atoms can bond together, helping to reveal how this relates to a variety of physical and chemical properties displayed by the compounds and elements that you work with.

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