Definition

Forces of attraction that hold atoms together in substances.
Electrical in nature.

Atomic Reactivity

• Most atoms (except noble gases) tend to react with other elements.
• Atoms gain stability by losing or gaining electrons.
• Goal: Acquire the electron configuration of the nearest noble gas.

Electropositivity and Electronegativity

• Electropositivity: Tendency of metal atoms to lose electrons.
• Electronegativity: Tendency of non-metal atoms to gain electrons.

Electron Sharing

Atoms can also achieve noble gas configuration by sharing electrons.

Electropositive Elements (Metals)

• Lose electrons from outermost shell.
• Become positively charged.
• Characteristics:
  • Low ionization energy
  • Low electronegativity
• Form positive ions.
• Examples:
  • Na → Na⁺ + e^-
  • Mg → Mg²⁺ + 2e^-

Electronegative Elements (Non-metals)

• Gain electrons.
• Become negatively charged.
• Characteristics:
  • High electronegativity
  • High electron affinity
• Form negative ions.
• Example:
  • F + e^- → F^-