Final answer:
Covalent bonds are formed when two atoms share a pair of valence electrons to stabilize their electron configurations, often illustrated by Lewis electron dot diagrams, and can involve single, double, or triple bonds.
Step-by-step explanation:
How Covalent Bonds Form
A covalent bond forms when two atoms share a pair of valence electrons. This bond is the result of the attractive force that holds the atoms together as the shared electrons are attracted to the nuclei of both atoms involved. When atoms such as those in group 6A need to complete their valence shells, they often form two covalent bonds to achieve a more stable electron configuration.
Moreover, to accurately represent certain molecules, drawing Lewis electron dot diagrams demonstrates how atoms share electrons and whether they form single, double bonds, or triple bonds. A single covalent bond involves sharing one pair of electrons, a double bond involves two pairs, and a triple bond involves three pairs of electrons.
Atom's stability often increases when they form covalent bonds because they achieve a full valence shell, which is energetically favorable. For example, by sharing two pairs of electrons, oxygen atoms can fill their outer energy levels, forming a molecule with a more stable arrangement of electrons, such as in O2.