Covalent Bond: GCSE Chemistry Definition

What is a covalent bond?

In GCSE chemistry, a covalent bond is a type of chemical bond involving a shared pair of electrons between non-metal atoms. Covalent bonds form so that the atoms achieve a full outer shell of electrons and become stable.

Dot and cross diagrams can be used to show the sharing of electrons in simple molecules. The diagrams below show the dot and cross diagrams for chlorine and carbon dioxide. In a chlorine molecule, each chlorine atom shares one outer electron to form a single covalent bond. Covalent bonds can be represented using a straight line. 

In carbon dioxide, four electrons are shared between each carbon and oxygen atom. Each electron pair represents one covalent bond, so two covalent bonds form between each of the atoms.

Covalent Bonding Revision Resources to Ace Your Exams

Most exam boards will expect you to be able to draw dot and cross diagrams for a range of covalent compounds. Once you have revised these, use our covalent bonding topic questions and flashcards to apply your knowledge and improve your grades!

Explore Our GCSE Chemistry Revision Resources