Question

The force that binds atoms together to form molecules is

Answer 1

Atoms are bound together in molecules by chemical bonds, primarily covalent bonds, where electrons are shared between atoms, leading to a stable arrangement known as a molecule.

Step-by-step explanation:

The force that binds atoms together to form molecules is a chemical bond. Specifically, when talking about water molecules, the atoms are held together by a covalent bond, which is an attractive force between the nuclei of a molecule's atoms and pairs of electrons between the atoms. This type of bonding involves the mutual sharing of electrons between atoms resulting in a stable arrangement known as a molecule. For example, in a single molecule of water (H₂O), each hydrogen atom shares its electron with the oxygen, creating a strong connection that keeps the atoms together.

Atoms may be attracted to each other by weaker intermolecular forces when they are in the vicinity of one another. These forces are much weaker than covalent bonds but can affect the physical properties of substances. Molecules can be formed of the same element, like H₂, or of different elements, forming a compound, like H₂O or CH₄ (methane).

Answer 2

The electromagnetic force

Step-by-step explanation:

There are four fundamental forces in nature:

- Gravitational force: it is the force that acts between any particles having mass. It is relevant only on very large scales (planets, stars), since it is the weakest of the 4 forces, so very large masses are needed in order to produce relevant effects.

- Electromagnetic force: it is the force that acts between particles with electric charge. It can be attractive or repulsive. It is the main force that acts between atoms and molecules.

- Strong nuclear force: it is the force that keeps the protons and the neutrons together inside the nucleus. It acts only on very short scales (only within the nucleus of the atom)

- Weak nuclear force: it is the force responsible for the radioactive decays of certain nuclei. It also acts on very short scales.

Therefore, the force that is responsible for binding atoms together to form molecules is the electromagnetic force.