Which statement best describes the relationship between energy, chemical bonding, and stability?

• A. Chemical bonds form when atoms reach higher potential energy, making them more stable.
• B. Atoms become less stable when they form chemical bonds because their energy increases.
• C. A chemical bond forms when atoms achieve lower potential energy, resulting in greater stability.
• D. Energy is not involved in the formation or stability of chemical bonds.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that chemical bonds form because atoms seek to achieve a more stable, lower energy state.
2. Recall that stability in atoms is associated with lower potential energy, not higher; atoms tend to release energy when bonds form.
3. Recognize that when atoms form chemical bonds, the system's overall potential energy decreases, which increases stability.
4. Eliminate incorrect statements: bonds do not form at higher potential energy, and energy is definitely involved in bond formation and stability.
5. Conclude that the best description is that chemical bonds form when atoms achieve lower potential energy, resulting in greater stability.