Definition: The attractive force between atoms created by sharing of an electron-pair.
Conditions for formation of covalent bond:
(1) Bond formations occur between two same or different nonmetals.
(2) Equal electronegativity
(3) Equal sharing of electrons
Some examples of covalent compounds:
Examples of multiple covalent bonds:
O2
CO2
Characteristics of covalent compounds:
(1) Gases, liquids or solids at room temperature,
(2) Low melting points and boiling points,
(3) Soft, much readily broken,
(4) Insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents,
(5) Non-conductors of electricity,
(6) Exhibit isomerism,
(7) Undergo molecular reactions which are generally slow