Early chemists believed that all matter was composed of combinations of four elements - air, earth, fire and water. Later, it was discovered that all matter is composed of atoms, which are mostly empty space. Atoms contain electrons, protons and neutrons. Electrons orbit the nucleus in distinct energy levels. The number of protons determines the element. Chemical bonds form when atoms gain, lose or share electrons to achieve a full outer energy level. There are three main types of bonds - ionic, covalent and metallic. Chemical reactions occur when bonds are formed or broken.