Atoms become more stable by sharing electrons. This type of bonding is called ______ bonding.

The correct choice is covalent bonding. Atoms seek stability in their outer electron shells, and one way to achieve this stability is by sharing electrons with other atoms. In covalent bonding, two or more atoms come together to share one or more pairs of electrons, which allows them to fill their outer shells and achieve a more stable electronic configuration. This type of bonding is common among non-metallic elements and contributes to the formation of various compounds.

Polar bonding refers to a specific type of covalent bond where the sharing of electrons is unequal, leading to slight electrical charges within the molecule. Ionic bonding involves the transfer of electrons from one atom to another, resulting in charged ions that attract each other due to electrostatic forces, forming a different kind of compound. Electrostatics is a broader term that describes the forces between charged particles but is not a specific type of atomic bonding. Therefore, covalent bonding is the most appropriate term for the sharing of electrons that leads to greater atomic stability.