3. Which of the following types of chemical bonds is primarily responsible for holding atoms together within a molecule?

• A. Covalent bond
• B. Van der Waals force
• C. Hydrogen bond
• D. Ionic bond

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that chemical bonds are forces that hold atoms together within molecules or compounds.
2. Recognize that Van der Waals forces and hydrogen bonds are types of intermolecular forces, meaning they act between molecules rather than within a molecule.
3. Identify that ionic bonds occur between ions, typically forming ionic compounds rather than molecules, and involve the transfer of electrons.
4. Recall that covalent bonds involve the sharing of electron pairs between atoms, which directly holds atoms together within a molecule.
5. Conclude that the primary type of bond responsible for holding atoms together within a molecule is the covalent bond.