Repulsion and attraction between atoms

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Atoms repel each other when they are close due to Pauli repulsion, which occurs because their electrons are in close proximity, creating a repulsive force. However, when atoms are farther apart, they can interact through Van der Waals forces, allowing for potential reactions. If one atom is missing a valence electron and another has an excess, they can form a covalent bond, resulting in a stable connection. This bond formation releases energy, indicating a favorable reaction. Understanding these interactions is crucial for grasping atomic behavior in chemistry.
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Why do atoms repel when they are close to each other and react when they are far from each other??
 
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Atoms are electrically neutral from far away. However, when you (pretend you are another, cognizant atom) get close to one, you are much closer to the electrons (-) than the protons (+). This means that you and the other atom will repel each other.

However, if the atom is missing 1 valence electron to complete its outer 'surface' and you happen to have one too many valence electrons (one of your electrons is further/popped out than all the others), then you two can marry (form a covalent bond) and live happily ever after. You will even produce a baby immediately (the energy/heat/information exchange with the environment when the covalent bond forms).

I know this is all very crude. I hope it helps visualize what's going on and please excuse my terrible humour.
 

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