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In all covalent bonds, valence electrons are ___

lost

gained

shared

User Balfour
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1 Answer

1 vote

Answer:

shared

Step-by-step explanation:

Covalent bonds are characterized by the sharing of valence electrons.

Electronegativity

Covalent bonds occur between atoms that have similar electronegativity. Remember that electronegativity is how strongly an atom pulls electrons toward itself. So, if 2 atoms have similar electronegativities, then they will pull somewhat equally upon the electrons and share them. Most commonly, covalent bonds occur between nonmetals.

Ionic Bond

The second major form of bonding is ionic bonding. Ionic bonds form when there is a large difference in electronegativities. The difference is great enough that one of the atoms will completely lose one or more electrons, while the other will take the electrons. Since electrons are being transferred, the atoms become ions. Ionic bonds commonly occur between metals and nonmetals.

User Kush Kella
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