Bonding types refer to the ways in which atoms connect to form molecules. The three primary types are ionic bonding, covalent bonding, and metallic bonding. In ionic bonding, atoms transfer electrons, resulting in charged ions that attract each other. Covalent bonding involves the sharing of electrons between atoms, creating strong connections. Metallic bonding occurs in metals, where electrons are shared freely among a lattice of atoms, allowing for conductivity and malleability. Each bonding type has distinct properties that influence the behavior and characteristics of the resulting compounds, such as melting points and electrical conductivity.