Chapter 12, Problem 93A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The single, double, and triple covalent bonds are to be distinguished.

Concept Introduction: Atoms that are not metals establish covalent bonds by sharing electron pairs. The covalent bond can exist in single, double, or triple forms:

Answer to Problem 93A

When two atoms share an electron pair, they form a single covalent bond.

Four electrons are involved in a double covalent bond.

Six electrons are involved in a triple covalent bond.

Explanation of Solution

The single bond between two chemical elements is a chemical bond. A single covalent bond is composed of two electrons bound together.

A double covalent bond is a chemical bond between atoms of two elements that consists of four bound electrons compared to the usual two in single covalent bonds.

When two elements form a triple covalent bond, six electrons are shared between the bonded atoms instead of the usual two in single covalent bonds.

Conclusion

When two atoms share an electron pair, they form a single covalent bond.

Four electrons are involved in a double covalent bond.

Six electrons are involved in a triple covalent bond.