During the formation of a chemical bond potential energy of the system

Options

A. increases
B. decreases
C. neither increases nor decreases
D. remains constant.

Explanation

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Chemical Bond Formation**: When atoms come together to form a chemical bond, they undergo a process that involves changes in energy. This process can be categorized as either endothermic or exothermic.

2. **Defining Exothermic Reaction**: The formation of a chemical bond is typically an exothermic reaction. This means that energy is released into the surroundings when the bond is formed.

3. **Attraction Between Electrons and Nuclei**: During bond formation, there is a strong attraction between the shared electrons and the nuclei of the bonding atoms. This attraction helps to stabilize the system.

4. **Potential Energy of Atoms**: Each atom has a distinct potential energy when it is in its isolated state. For example, carbon and hydrogen atoms have different potential energies before they bond.

5. **Energy Change During Bond Formation**: When a bond is formed, the potential energy of the system decreases. This decrease in potential energy is associated with the release of heat or energy as a product of the reaction.

6. **Stronger Bonds and Potential Energy**: The stronger the bond that is formed, the lower the potential energy of the system becomes. Conversely, if the bond is weak, the potential energy will be higher.

7. **Conclusion**: Therefore, during the formation of a chemical bond, the potential energy of the system decreases. This is the key takeaway regarding the energy changes associated with bond formation.

**Final Answer**: During the formation of a chemical bond, the potential energy of the system decreases.

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