The type of bond that involves the sharing of electron pairs between different atoms is called a covalent bond. Covalent bonding occurs when two or more atoms share electrons to achieve a more stable electron configuration.
In a covalent bond, each atom contributes one or more electrons to form a shared electron pair between the nuclei. This sharing of electrons creates a strong attraction that holds the atoms together, forming a molecule. Covalent bonds commonly occur between nonmetal atoms, as these elements tend to have similar electronegativities, meaning they have a similar tendency to attract electrons.
Covalent bonds are prevalent in many substances, including molecules of water (H2O), methane (CH4), oxygen gas (O2), and many organic compounds found in living organisms. These bonds are vital in forming the molecular structures that make up the building blocks of life and other essential substances.