See how nonmetal atoms share electrons to form covalent bonds. Explore single, double, and triple bonds, visualize shared electron pairs, and build real molecules like H₂O, CO₂, and N₂.
Before bonding, nonmetal atoms are separate and neutral. Unlike metals, nonmetals have high electronegativity — they hold onto their electrons tightly and don't give them away. Instead, they prefer to share electrons with other atoms.
Covalent bonds form between nonmetals. Both atoms share electrons, and both atoms "count" the shared electrons as their own, allowing each to reach a full outer shell of 8 electrons.