The forces holding atoms together are best called:

The forces that hold atoms together are best described as "bonds". Bonds refer to the electrostatic forces of attraction between atoms, which can be covalent, ionic, or metallic in nature. These bonds are responsible for the formation of molecules and compounds, as they hold the atoms together in a stable arrangement. The terms "attachments," "joins," and "links" do not accurately describe the concept of the forces holding atoms together.