Why is energy released when bonds are formed?

Why is energy released when chemical bonds are formed?

  • I have seen plenty of articles stating that it is actually the forming of chemical bonds, not the breaking of them, that releases energy. Why does this happen, on the atomic scale. A cited source would be helpful since I am doing a science fair project. Thanks

  • Answer:

    you can get a good quote from any chemistry text or try wikipedia energy is released when bonds are formed because the electrons involved move into a lower energy configuration in the bonded arrangement than they had before the bond formed

Benjamin at Yahoo! Answers Visit the source

Was this solution helpful to you?

Other answers

In all chemical change, chemical bonds are broken or formed. Energy is required to break a chemical bond (just as energy is required to stretch a spring until it breaks). Conversely, forming a chemical bond releases energy. Virtually all chemical reactions absorb or release energy because bond making seldom exactly balances bond breaking in the reaction.

Steve Wilkos

Just Added Q & A:

Find solution

For every problem there is a solution! Proved by Solucija.

  • Got an issue and looking for advice?

  • Ask Solucija to search every corner of the Web for help.

  • Get workable solutions and helpful tips in a moment.

Just ask Solucija about an issue you face and immediately get a list of ready solutions, answers and tips from other Internet users. We always provide the most suitable and complete answer to your question at the top, along with a few good alternatives below.