What defines a covalent bond?

A covalent bond is defined by the sharing of electron pairs between atoms. This occurs when two nonmetal atoms come together and share electrons in order to achieve a full outer electron shell, which stabilizes both atoms involved in the bond. Each atom contributes one or more of its electrons to the shared pair, thereby forming a strong bond that holds the atoms together.

This sharing of electrons can lead to the formation of molecules, which are groups of atoms bonded together through covalent bonds. The ability of atoms to fill their outermost electron shell by sharing electrons is a fundamental concept in chemistry, which explains the structure and reactivity of many compounds.

In contrast to other bonding types, such as ionic bonds—which involve the complete transfer of electrons leading to the formation of charged particles (cations and anions)—covalent bonding emphasizes the cooperative nature of electron sharing, resulting in distinct molecular structures.