Repulsion and attraction between atoms

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SUMMARY

Atoms exhibit repulsion when in close proximity due to Pauli repulsion, which occurs because of the overlapping electron clouds. When atoms are farther apart, they can interact through Van der Waals forces, allowing for potential chemical reactions. A covalent bond can form when one atom has a surplus of valence electrons and another atom is deficient, leading to a stable interaction. This process involves energy exchange, which is crucial for understanding atomic behavior.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Pauli repulsion
  • Familiarity with Van der Waals forces
  • Basic knowledge of covalent bonding
  • Concept of valence electrons
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of Pauli exclusion principle in quantum mechanics
  • Explore the characteristics and applications of Van der Waals forces
  • Study the process of covalent bonding in various chemical reactions
  • Investigate the role of valence electrons in chemical reactivity
USEFUL FOR

Chemistry students, physicists, and anyone interested in atomic interactions and chemical bonding mechanisms.

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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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