What characterizes a covalent bond?

A covalent bond is characterized by the sharing of electrons between atoms. This type of bond typically occurs between nonmetal atoms that have similar electronegativities, allowing them to share electron pairs to achieve a more stable electronic configuration, akin to having full outer shells. This sharing of electrons results in the formation of molecules, which can vary in complexity from simple diatomic molecules to large biological macromolecules.

Covalent bonds can be classified as either single, double, or triple bonds, depending on how many pairs of electrons are shared between the bonded atoms. The strength and stability of covalent bonds contribute significantly to the structure and function of biological molecules, making understanding these bonds essential in the study of chemistry and biology. This ability to form stable molecules through electron sharing is fundamental to the composition of organic compounds and biological macromolecules.