Which of the following is primarily responsible for holding atoms together in chemical compounds?

• A. Nuclear forces
• B. Chemical bonds
• C. Gravitational forces
• D. Magnetic interactions

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that atoms in chemical compounds are held together by interactions involving their electrons and nuclei.
2. Recognize that nuclear forces act within the nucleus to hold protons and neutrons together, but do not directly hold atoms together in compounds.
3. Recall that gravitational forces are extremely weak at the atomic scale and do not significantly influence atomic bonding.
4. Consider that magnetic interactions can influence certain properties of materials but are not the primary force holding atoms together in chemical compounds.
5. Conclude that chemical bonds, which involve the sharing or transfer of electrons between atoms, are primarily responsible for holding atoms together in chemical compounds.