One step in a series of steps that take place in a chemical change is the breaking and forming of chemical bonds.

Here's why:

* Chemical changes involve the rearrangement of atoms. This rearrangement happens when existing bonds between atoms are broken, and new bonds are formed to create different molecules.

* Breaking bonds requires energy, while forming bonds releases energy. The overall energy change determines whether the reaction is exothermic (releases heat) or endothermic (absorbs heat).

Example:

Consider the combustion of methane (CH4) with oxygen (O2):

CH4 + 2O2 → CO2 + 2H2O

* The C-H bonds in methane and the O=O bonds in oxygen are broken.

* New bonds are formed between carbon and oxygen to form CO2, and between hydrogen and oxygen to form H2O.

This breaking and forming of bonds is a fundamental step in all chemical changes.