- Non-metals form simple molecules with covalent bonds between atoms. The bond is formed by the sharing of a pair of electrons between 2 atoms (each of them contributing one electron to each bond), forming a molecule. This makes each atom gain a full outer shell.
Differences between ionic and covalent compounds
Ionic compounds have high m.p. and b.p. because the ions are attracted to each other by strong electrostatic forces, thus large amounts of energy are needed to separate them. They are not volatile, they are usually soluble in water and they conduct electricity when molten or in solution.
Covalent compounds have low m.p. and b.p. because, as the intermolecular forces between molecules are weak, less energy is needed to break them apart; though the covalent bonds between the atoms are strong. Thus, they are usually liquids or gases at room temp. They are volatile, are soluble in organic solvents, but they don't conduct electricity
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