Multiple Choice
Which of the following covalent bonds has a polarity with the electron density shifted toward the more electronegative atom, and in which direction does the polarity point?
11. Bonding & Molecular Structure
Chemical Bonds
Multiple Choice
Which of the following best explains why a covalent bond forms between two atoms?
A
Atoms gain protons to balance their charge.
B
Atoms transfer electrons to each other to form ions.
C
Atoms share electrons to achieve a stable octet in their valence shells.
D
Atoms lose electrons to increase their atomic radius.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that a covalent bond involves the sharing of electrons between atoms rather than transferring or losing electrons.
Recall the octet rule, which states that atoms tend to form bonds to achieve a full valence shell of 8 electrons, leading to greater stability.
Recognize that in covalent bonding, atoms share pairs of electrons so that each atom effectively attains a stable octet configuration.
Contrast this with ionic bonding, where atoms transfer electrons to form charged ions, which is not the case in covalent bonding.
Conclude that the best explanation for covalent bond formation is that atoms share electrons to achieve a stable octet in their valence shells.
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