What are covalent bonds?

Covalent bonds are formed when atoms share electrons with one another. This sharing allows each atom to attain a more stable electronic configuration, often resembling that of noble gases, which are generally non-reactive due to their full valence shells. By sharing electrons, the bonded atoms can satisfy their need for electrons while forming a stable connection between them.

This type of bond is particularly important in organic chemistry, as it is the basis of most molecules that make up living organisms. For example, in a water molecule, each hydrogen atom shares an electron with the oxygen atom, forming a covalent bond that gives the molecule its unique properties.

In contrast to covalent bonds, activities involving the transfer of electrons between atoms lead to ionic bonds, which is why options focusing on transferring electrons or solely ionic activity are not valid definitions of covalent bonding. Additionally, stating that covalent bonds do not involve electrons misunderstands the fundamental nature of these bonds, as electron sharing is the essence of covalent interactions. Therefore, the characteristic of covalent bonds is accurately captured by the concept of sharing electrons among atoms.