Forming covalent bonds | Starter Quiz | Oak National Academy

Why do atoms form chemical bonds?

• To increase their mass.

• To achieve a full outer electron shell.

• To lose all their electrons.

• To become larger in size.

Answer explanation

Atoms form chemical bonds to achieve a full outer electron shell, which makes them more stable.

Which type of bond forms between atoms that have transferred electrons from one atom to another?

• Covalent bond

• Ionic bond

• Metallic bond

Answer explanation

An ionic bond is the electrostatic force of attraction between oppositely charged ions, which form by the transfer of electrons from one atom to another.

What type of elements typically form ionic bonds?

• Two non-metals.

• Two metals.

• A metal and a non-metal.

Answer explanation

Ionic bonds typically form between a metal and a non-metal.

How many outer-shell electrons does an oxygen atom have?

• 2

• 4

• 6

• 8

• 16

Answer explanation

An oxygen atom has 6 outer-shell electrons, 8 in total. Electron configuration of 2,6

A ___ is a particle consisting of two or more non-metal atoms bonded together. It can be made up of the same or different elements.

Answer explanation

A molecule is a particle consisting of two or more atoms covalently bonded together. It can be made up of the same or different elements.

Arrange the following molecules by the number of covalent bonds each has, from least to most:

• O₂

• N₂

• H₂

Answer explanation

The correct order is: H₂ has one single bond, O₂ has a double bond, and N₂ has a triple bond.