Humber Admissions Practice Test

What type of elements are primarily involved in covalent compounds?

1. Metal and metal

2. Metal and nonmetal

3. Nonmetal and nonmetal

4. Nonmetal and metalloid

The correct answer is: Nonmetal and nonmetal

Covalent compounds are primarily formed between nonmetals. These compounds result from the sharing of electrons between atoms, which typically occurs when two nonmetals come together. The sharing of electrons allows each atom to achieve a full outer electron shell, leading to greater stability in the resulting molecule. In the case of nonmetal and nonmetal interactions, these elements have similar electronegativities, which means they have comparable tendencies to attract electrons. This feature is crucial for forming strong covalent bonds, as both atoms are motivated to share electrons rather than transfer them, which is characteristic of ionic bonds that typically occur between metals and nonmetals. The presence of nonmetals in covalent compounds gives rise to a diverse range of molecular structures and properties, such as varying polarities, molecular shapes, and reactivities, which can significantly influence the behavior of the compounds in different conditions. Understanding the nature of covalent bonds, particularly how nonmetals contribute to their formation, is essential for studying the characteristics of chemical compounds and predicting their reactions in various chemical contexts.