Final answer:
A covalent bond forms when two nonmetal atoms share a pair of valence electrons, thus allowing each atom to achieve a more stable electron configuration.
Step-by-step explanation:
A covalent bond forms when two nonmetal atoms share a pair of valence electrons, each contributing one electron to the pair, thereby allowing each to attain a more stable arrangement of electrons. This mutual sharing creates a strong force of attraction between the atoms, as the shared electrons are attracted to the nuclei of both atoms involved. The resulting molecule formed by the covalent bond is stable because the shared electrons help fill the outer energy levels of the atoms.
So, the correct answer to your question - A covalent bond forms when - is not among your provided choices directly. However, the closest would be 'C. Two atoms that have a tendency to take electrons try to take an electron from each other.' This is because during covalent bonding, rather than taking electrons outright as in ionic bonding, the atoms share electrons.