Chemical Bonds

Categories Chemistry

Course Description

Chemical Bonds is a core chemistry module that reveals how atoms connect to form the substances that shape our world—from water and salt to metals and plastics. These bonds are the invisible forces that determine a compound’s structure, stability, and behavior.

This lesson introduces the reasons atoms bond, the types of bonds they form, and how these interactions influence everything from chemical reactions to material properties. Whether you’re a student, educator, or curious mind, this course offers a clear and engaging look into the glue of the universe.

What You’ll Learn

🔗 By the end of this lesson, you’ll be able to:

  • Understand why atoms form bonds:
    • Atoms bond to achieve greater stability, often by filling their outer electron shells
    • Learn how bonding leads to lower energy states, making compounds more stable than individual atoms
    • Explore the octet rule and how it guides bonding behavior
  • Explore the three main types of chemical bonds:
    • Ionic Bonds:
      • Formed when electrons are transferred from one atom to another
      • Typically occur between metals and nonmetals
      • Example: Sodium (Na) donates an electron to Chlorine (Cl), forming NaCl (table salt)
    • Covalent Bonds:
      • Formed when atoms share electrons
      • Usually occur between nonmetals
      • Example: Two hydrogen atoms share electrons with one oxygen atom to form H₂O (water)
    • Metallic Bonds:
    • Involve a “sea of electrons” shared among a lattice of metal atoms
    • Provide properties like conductivity, malleability, and lustre
    • Example: Copper (Cu) in electrical wiring
  • Analyze specific examples of each bond type:
    • Ionic: Magnesium oxide (MgO), potassium bromide (KBr)
    • Covalent: Carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄)
    • Metallic: Aluminum (Al) in foil, iron (Fe) in construction

Who This Lesson Is For

This lesson is ideal for students beginning their chemistry journey, educators teaching molecular structure, and anyone interested in how atoms unite to form the materials we use every day.

A free course by

Course Duration: 30m
Course level:Beginner
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Requirements

  • Basic understanding of atoms and electrons
  • Familiarity with the periodic table
  • Interest in molecular structure and chemical reactions

Target Audience

  • Middle and high school chemistry students
  • First-year college science majors
  • Educators teaching chemical bonding
  • Future scientists, engineers, and healthcare professionals
  • Lifelong learners curious about molecular interactions