So the bonds between atoms can be thought of as potential energy.

The normal force is due to repulsive forces of interaction between atoms at close contact.

But that's not how the bonds between real atoms behave.

Energy must be supplied to break the bonds between atoms to produce free radicals.

A lone pair is a group of two electrons that are not used in any bonds between atoms.

The interactions between atoms or molecules are described as "potential".

All forces between atoms are caused by the electromagnetic force.

For some materials, the magnetic attraction between atoms is unusually strong.

The actual connection between atoms requires a much more complex explanation.

Distances between atoms within a single residue are not included in the counts.