Concept 4 - Covalent Bonds

What is a covalent compound?

A compound formed when two or more atoms share electrons (e⁻).

What elements form covalent bonds?

Nonmetallic elements.

What happens if there is a difference in electronegativity (ΔEN) in a covalent bond?

A polar covalent bond forms with unequal sharing of electrons.

What type of covalent bond forms when ΔEN = 0?

A pure (nonpolar) covalent bond with equal sharing of electrons.

What is a molecule?

A neutral group of atoms held together by covalent bonds; it can exist independently.

Give examples of molecules.

• One glucose molecule: C₆H₁₂O₆

• One water molecule: H₂O

What are diatomic elements?

Elements that naturally exist as molecules made of two atoms: H₂, N₂, O₂, F₂, Cl₂, Br₂, and I₂.

Do covalent compounds follow the octet rule?

Yes, they tend to still follow the octet rule.

How many electrons are shared in a single bond?

2 electrons

How many electrons are shared in a double bond?

4 electrons

How many electrons are shared in a triple bond?

6 electrons

What is VSEPR theory?

The idea that electron pairs will arrange themselves as far apart as possible because they repel each other.

How do you name covalent compounds?

• Use a prefix to indicate the number of atoms.

• The second element ends with “-ide.”

• Do not use “mono-” for the first element if there's only one.

What is the name for P₂O₅?

Diphosphorus pentoxide.

What is the formula for dichlorine monoxide?

Cl₂O