Covalent bonds: When atoms share one or more pairs of electrons, they form a covalent bond. The shared electrons are attracted to the nuclei of both atoms, creating a strong bond between them.
Ionic bonds: When one atom gives up one or more electrons to another atom, the atoms become electrically charged. The oppositely charged atoms are attracted to each other, forming an ionic bond.
Metallic bonds: In metals, the atoms are arranged in a regular pattern, and their valence electrons are free to move throughout the metal. The attraction between the positive metal ions and the mobile electrons holds the metal together.
Hydrogen bonds: Hydrogen bonds are weak bonds that form between a hydrogen atom and an electronegative atom, such as oxygen or nitrogen. Hydrogen bonds are important in many biological molecules, such as DNA and proteins.
Van der Waals forces: Van der Waals forces are weak attractions that occur between all atoms and molecules. These forces are due to the temporary fluctuations in the electron distribution of atoms and molecules.