Please answer

Covalent bonds are formed by the ____ of electrons between two atoms so that both can achieve stable electronic configuration.

Dear student,

The covalent bond is the bond formed between atoms when they share their outermost electrons, in order to achieve an inert gas configuration. We know that an ionic bond is formed between a metal atom (an electropositive atom) and a non-metal atom (an electronegative element) by the transfer of electrons. A covalent bond is formed between atoms both of which are non-metals. Both do not have the tendency to lose electrons but to gain electrons, hence they share their valence electrons and complete their octets. This sharing of electrons results in bond formation between the two atoms.

For example, consider carbon tetrachloride. Carbon has 4 electrons in its valence shell and needs 4 more in order to complete its octet. Chlorine, on the other hand, has 7 electrons in its valence shell and needs one more in order to complete its octet. Therefore in the formation of a covalent bond in carbon tetrachloride, C shares the four electrons with 4 Cl atoms, resulting in the formation of 4 covalent bonds.

Hence, Covalent bonds are formed by the sharing of electrons between two atoms so that both can achieve stable electronic configuration.

Regards