Orbital overlap

Orbital overlap occurs when electrons in atoms come close enough for their atomic orbitals—regions where electrons are likely to be found—to intersect. This overlap allows electrons to be shared or transferred between atoms, forming chemical bonds. The extent of this overlap influences bond strength and properties; greater overlap typically results in a stronger bond. Think of orbitals as "clouds" around atoms; when these clouds intersect, it enables atoms to connect and interact, creating molecules with specific structures and characteristics.