Which of the following best describes what happens energetically when chemical bonds are formed?

• A. There is no change in energy.
• B. Energy is released to the surroundings.
• C. Energy is absorbed from the surroundings.
• D. Energy is converted entirely into mass.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that chemical bond formation involves interactions between atoms that lead to a more stable arrangement.
2. Recall that when bonds form, the system typically moves to a lower energy state, meaning the potential energy of the system decreases.
3. Recognize that the decrease in potential energy during bond formation results in the release of energy to the surroundings.
4. Contrast this with bond breaking, which requires energy input (energy absorbed) to overcome the existing bonds.
5. Conclude that the correct energetic description of bond formation is that energy is released to the surroundings.