Chemical bonding is the process by which atoms connect to form molecules and compounds. This occurs through interactions between the electrons of different atoms. The main types of chemical bonds are ionic bonds, where electrons are transferred between atoms, and covalent bonds, where electrons are shared. These bonds are essential for creating the diverse range of substances found in nature. The strength and type of bond influence the properties of the resulting material, such as its melting point, solubility, and conductivity. Understanding chemical bonding is crucial in fields like chemistry, biology, and materials science.