Learn: Covalent Bonding

Welcome!Welcome back! You've already learned about atomic structure, the periodic table, and ionic bonding. Now we’ll build on these concepts by exploring covalent bonding.

What is Covalent Bonding?Covalent bonding happens when two non-metal atoms share electrons to achieve a full outer shell. This sharing creates a strong bond between the atoms and forms molecules. Covalent bonds are different from ionic bonds, which involve the transfer of electrons between atoms.

Why is Covalent Bonding Important?Covalent bonding is important because it allows non-metal atoms to combine and form stable substances, like water (H2O) and carbon dioxide (CO2). These molecules are essential for life and many chemical processes.

Examples of Covalent BondsCovalent bonds create molecules such as water (H2O), carbon dioxide (CO2), and methane (CH4). These compounds are common and play an important role in everyday life. For example, water is essential for life, and methane is used as a fuel.

How Does Covalent Bonding Work?When two non-metal atoms approach each other, they share electrons to complete their outer shells. For example, oxygen (O) has six electrons in its outer shell and needs two more to reach a full shell. Two oxygen atoms can share two pairs of electrons, forming a double bond (O=O).

Simple Covalent MoleculesSome molecules, like hydrogen (H2), have single covalent bonds. Others, like oxygen (O2), have double bonds, and nitrogen (N2) has triple bonds. The type of bond depends on how many electrons are shared.

Properties of Covalent CompoundsCovalent compounds generally have low melting and boiling points because the forces between the molecules are weak. They do not conduct electricity because they do not have free electrons or ions.

Review Time!Great work! You've learned about covalent bonding, how it works, examples of covalent molecules, and their properties. Now let's test your understanding with a few questions.