Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the difference between covalent bonds and ionic bonds?
11. Bonding & Molecular Structure
Chemical Bonds
Struggling with General Chemistry?
Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
In a covalent bond, are the atoms truly 'sharing' electrons?
A
Yes, the electrons are shared equally between the atoms.
B
No, the electrons are completely transferred from one atom to another.
C
No, the electrons are not involved in covalent bonding.
D
Yes, the electrons are shared, but not always equally.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the nature of covalent bonds: Covalent bonds involve the sharing of electrons between atoms. This sharing allows each atom to attain the electron configuration of a noble gas, achieving greater stability.
Recognize the difference between equal and unequal sharing: In a covalent bond, electrons can be shared equally or unequally. Equal sharing occurs in nonpolar covalent bonds, typically between identical atoms, such as in diatomic molecules like O2 or N2.
Consider electronegativity: Unequal sharing of electrons occurs in polar covalent bonds, where atoms have different electronegativities. The atom with higher electronegativity will attract the shared electrons more strongly, resulting in a partial charge distribution.
Visualize electron distribution: In a polar covalent bond, the electron density is higher around the more electronegative atom, creating a dipole moment. This can be represented by δ- and δ+ symbols indicating partial negative and positive charges, respectively.
Apply this understanding to the given statement: The correct answer is that electrons are shared in covalent bonds, but not always equally. This reflects the concept of polar and nonpolar covalent bonds based on electronegativity differences.
Related Videos
Related Practice
