Covalent Bonding Flashcards

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Note: We may include questions that have multiple correct answers. It's useful to remember specific examples to understand these concepts better.

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What is a covalent bond?

In a covalent bond, two atoms share electrons. They share a pair of electrons.

Which type of elements usually form covalent bonds?

Covalent bonds usually form between non-metal atoms. Metals do not normally form covalent bonds.

Why do atoms form covalent bonds?

Atoms form covalent bonds to get full outer shells of electrons. This makes the atoms more stable.

What is a molecule in terms of covalent bonding?

A molecule is a group of two or more atoms joined by covalent bonds. The atoms can be the same or different.

What is a single covalent bond?

A single covalent bond is one shared pair of electrons. The two atoms share two electrons in total.

What is a double covalent bond?

A double covalent bond is two shared pairs of electrons between the same two atoms. The atoms share four electrons in total.

Give two examples of simple molecules that have covalent bonds.

Water (H2O), carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4) are simple covalent molecules. Any two of these are correct.

Why do simple covalent molecules usually have low melting and boiling points?

Simple covalent molecules have weak forces between the molecules. Only a small amount of energy is needed to break these forces.

Why do most covalent substances not conduct electricity?

Most covalent substances do not have charged particles that can move. They have no free ions or free electrons.

What is a giant covalent structure?

A giant covalent structure is a huge network of atoms joined by covalent bonds. It has very many atoms held together.

Name one giant covalent substance and state one of its properties.

Diamond is a giant covalent substance. It is very hard and has a very high melting point.