Combined ScienceCode 5129
Simple molecules and covalent bonds
What this topic asks you to be able to do
- State that a covalent bond forms when two atoms share a pair of electrons, so that each reaches a noble gas electronic configuration
- Describe how covalent bonds are produced within simple molecules, including H2, Cl2, H2O, CH4, NH3, HCl, O2 and CO2. Use dot-and-cross diagrams to display the electron arrangements in these and similar molecules.
- Describe the following properties of simple molecular compounds, and explain them using structure and bonding: (a) low melting and boiling points, caused by weak intermolecular forces (the particular kinds of intermolecular forces are not required) (b) poor electrical conductivity