Editing Openai/69227557-0850-8003-9c19-8f26825e337d (section)

==== Two things must happen simultaneously: ====

===== Atoms must be close enough that: =====

ΔE=Ebonded−Eseparate<0\Delta E = E_{\text{bonded}} - E_{\text{separate}} < 0ΔE=Ebonded−Eseparate<0
That is: a lower-energy quantum state becomes available.

===== To transition into the lower-energy state, the system must shed energy: =====
* via photon emission
* via collisions with nearby particles
* via redistribution into vibrational/rotational kinetic energy

If the excess energy cannot be removed, the atoms approach → accelerate → and then rebound (like charged elastic balls).

So the key trigger is:

: 

Without dissipation, bonding cannot complete.

This is why:
* cold atoms bond more easily than hot ones
* chemistry slows at low pressure
* catalysts don't force bonding—they provide energy pathways and intermediate states