Definition of a Covalent Compound
A covalent compound, also known as a molecular compound, is a chemical substance formed when two or more nonmetal atoms share electrons. This sharing occurs to achieve a stable electron configuration, typically filling their outermost electron shells, and results in the formation of distinct molecules.
Key Characteristics and Formation
Covalent compounds are characterized by the formation of covalent bonds, where electrons are mutually shared rather than transferred. These bonds hold atoms together strongly within a molecule, but the forces between individual molecules (intermolecular forces) are generally weaker. This electron sharing allows atoms to reach a more stable state.
Examples of Covalent Compounds
Common examples of covalent compounds include water (H₂O), where oxygen shares electrons with two hydrogen atoms; carbon dioxide (CO₂), formed by carbon sharing electrons with two oxygen atoms; and methane (CH₄), where carbon shares electrons with four hydrogen atoms. All these substances exist as discrete molecular units.
Properties and Applications
Covalent compounds typically exhibit lower melting and boiling points compared to ionic compounds due to the relatively weak intermolecular forces. They are generally poor conductors of electricity in both solid and molten states because they lack free-moving ions or electrons. Many essential substances, including most organic compounds, are covalent in nature, playing crucial roles in biology and industrial chemistry.