Answer: Covalent bonding occurs when electrons are shared between atoms. The correct option is A.
Step-by-step explanation:
When atoms form a bond by sharing one or more pairs of electrons the bond is referred to as a COVALENT BOND. This is so because CV there is a natural drive for atoms to attain the electronic configuration of Group 0 which has a completely filled outermost shell of eight electrons. The covalent bond usually occurs among non- metals. Example of covalent bonding is seen in the formation of chlorine and carbondioxide molecules. Chloride atom which contains seven electrons in its outermost shell shares an electron with another chloride atom to attain a filled outermost shell leading to the formation of a chlorine molecule.
The characteristics of a covalent compound includes:
--> they contain only molecules. There are no ions, hence they do not conduct electricity.
--> they dissolve in organic solvents. They are insoluble in water.
--> they have low melting and boiling points.