A covalent bond is a type of chemical bond where two atoms share one or more pairs of electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration. These bonds typically form between non-metal atoms with similar electronegativities.
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Covalent bonds can be single, double, or triple, depending on the number of shared electron pairs.
The electron-sharing in covalent bonds leads to the formation of molecules.
Molecular geometry and the shape of molecules are determined by the arrangement of covalent bonds.
Polar covalent bonds occur when electrons are shared unequally due to differences in electronegativity.
Nonpolar covalent bonds involve equal sharing of electrons between atoms with similar electronegativities.
Review Questions
What distinguishes a covalent bond from an ionic bond?
How does electronegativity affect the polarity of a covalent bond?
Describe the difference between single, double, and triple covalent bonds.
Related terms
Ionic Bond: A chemical bond formed through the electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions, typically occurring between metal and non-metal atoms.