Sigma (σ) bonds

Definition

A sigma bond is the strongest type of covalent chemical bond where two atomic orbitals directly overlap between the nuclei of two atoms. This bond involves the sharing of a pair of electrons by two atoms in a molecule.

Related terms

Covalent Bond: A type of chemical bond involving the sharing of electron pairs between atoms.

Pi Bond (π Bond): A weaker type of covalent bond formed from the side-to-side overlap of p orbitals, above and below the axis connecting two atom nuclei.

Hybridization: The process by which atomic orbitals mix to form new hybrid orbitals suitable for the pairing of electrons to form chemical bonds in molecules