Atoms in their original state have high potential energy and are unstable. To achieve stability, they form molecules and compounds, reducing their potential energy. For example, hydrogen atoms form a stable hydrogen molecule with lower potential energy. This process is illustrated in a potential energy diagram. Similarly, water and sulphur molecules form through chemical bonding. Large molecules like DNA and proteins also result from atomic bonding, which is associated with a decrease in potential energy.

Why do atoms combine to form molecules or compounds?

• To increase their potential energy

• To become more unstable

• To exist individually

• To reduce their potential energy

What happens to the potential energy when two hydrogen atoms form a hydrogen molecule?

• It increases

• It remains the same

• It decreases

• It fluctuates

In the potential energy diagram for hydrogen molecule formation, what is observed about the stability of the hydrogen molecule compared to individual hydrogen atoms?

• The hydrogen molecule is less stable

• Stability is not related to potential energy

• The hydrogen molecule is more stable

• Both have the same stability

How are the atoms arranged in a sulfur molecule?

• In a linear chain

• In a crown shape

• In a random cluster

• In a double helix

What is a common characteristic of chemical bonding in molecules like DNA and proteins?

• It makes the molecules unstable

• It lowers potential energy

• It is unrelated to potential energy

• It increases potential energy