Covalent (also called Molecular) bonds consist of two or more non-metals. This results in valence electrons being shared between atoms.
CH4 is a good example of electrons shared to form a covalent bond and represented in a Lewis Structure.
Remember that in covalent bonding valance electrons are shared to form the chemical bond. This influences the properties of covalent compounds.
| Property | Ionic Bonds | Covalent Bonds |
|---|---|---|
| State | crystalline solids | solids, liquids, gases |
| Melting and Boiling point | High | Low |
| Solubility | Usually dissolves in water but not in non-polar liquids | Usually soluble in non-polar liquids but not in water |
| Conductivity | Conducts electricity when melted or dissolved in water. | Does not conduct electricity. |
| Hardness | Hard and brittle | For covalent solids - usually soft |