Covalent bonds primarily form what types of structures?

Covalent bonds are formed when two atoms share one or more pairs of electrons, which allows them to attain more stable electronic configurations. This sharing of electrons is the fundamental characteristic of covalent bonding, leading to the formation of distinct groups of atoms that are held together by these bonds.

When covalent bonds occur, they typically result in the formation of molecules. A molecule can be as simple as a diatomic gas like hydrogen (H2) or as complex as large organic compounds like proteins and DNA, which are made up of many atoms bonded covalently.

While elements consist of only one type of atom and compounds are made up of different elements bonded together (which can include covalent bonds), the defining feature that specifically relates to the result of covalent bonding is the formation of molecules. Thus, when considering the primary structures formed through covalent bonds, molecules are the most direct outcome of this type of bonding.