Types of Covalent Bonds

Covalent Bonds are the bonds between atoms which are formed by sharing electrons, unlike transfer of electrons. The covalent bonds generally occur between atoms of the same molecule, hence they are also known as molecular bonds. Also, they are most commonly found in Organic Compounds (molecules containing Carbon as one of the atoms). It is an important concept of Organic Chemistry as it helps in understanding various chemical reactions, formation of useful organic compounds, interactions between different types of chemicals, and so on.

Understanding Covalent bonds is essential as many competitive exams such as NEET, JEE Main and other state engineering and medical entrances tests cover questions from this section extensively. The stability of various chemical compounds depends upon the types of covalent bonds, and this in itself is an extensive topic which makes it both lengthy and complex. Let us first understand what are the various types of Covalent Bonds!

Covalent Bonds: Definition and Types

Covalent bonds are essentially formed by the sharing of electrons. Molecules formed by Covalent Bonding achieve stability by sharing single, double or triple pair of electrons. Compounds containing Carbon and Hydrogen (Organic Compounds) are formed due to covalent bonding. The different types of Covalent Bonds are:

Single Bonds: These bonds are formed when the combining atoms share two electrons each. Molecules formed by single bond are the most stable, and have lesser density as compared to molecules formed by double and triple bonds. For example, HCl molecule (Hydrochloric Acid).

Double Bonds: Double bonds are formed between atoms sharing two pairs (four electrons) each to form a molecule. Double bonds are stronger than single bonds but less stable. The most common examples of molecule formed by double bonds are O₂ (Oxygen) and CO₂ (Carbon Dioxide).

Triple Bonds: The molecules formed when the participating atoms share three pairs of electrons. These types of bonds are the most unstable types of bonds. An example of molecule containing triple covalent bond is N₂ (Nitrogen) molecule.

Covalent Bonds are also classified on the basis of polarisation. There are two types of Covalent bonds based on Polarisation:

Polar Covalent Bonds: In this type of bond, polarisation between the atoms occur due to the unequal sharing of the electrons. This polarisation is due to the difference in electronegativity of atoms combining to form a molecule. The more electronegative atoms have a stronger pull of attraction giving rise to polarisation. For example, H₂O (Water).

Nonpolar Covalent Bonds: Molecules formed by nonpolar covalent bonds are stable and do not exhibit polarisation as the participating atoms have no difference in electronegativity. For example H₂ (Dihydrogen).

So, Is Covalent Bond Tricky to Understand?

Studying and understanding the covalent bonds, their types and applications in chemical reactions can be tricky. Practising questions based on the topic can help students grasp the concepts effectively. The idea should be to remember the rules of electron sharing rather than rote learning. With the help of the videos prepared by our academicians, students can easily understand and master the concept!

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