1.45 Opposite often attract
When non-metal atoms bond to other non-metal atoms they share electrons to form covalent bonds.
1.44 - 1.45 Activity. Opposites attract
Students should:
- 1.44 know that a covalent bond is formed between atoms by the sharing of a pair of electrons
- 1.45 understand covalent bonds in terms of electrostatic attractions
Play the video to see an animation showing the way in which electrons shared between two nuclei will create an electrostatic attraction between them. This attractive force is known as a covalent bond.
Notice that as the bond forms, energy is released.
It follows then that to break a bond, energy needs to be supplied.