Hydrogen, with one electron in its K shell, shares electrons with another hydrogen atom to form H₂. This sharing allows both hydrogen atoms to attain the electronic configuration of the nearest noble gas, helium.
Using hydrogen as an example, explain the process of forming a molecule through the sharing of valence electrons.
Share
In the formation of a hydrogen molecule (H₂), each hydrogen atom, with one electron in its K shell, shares its electron with another hydrogen atom. This sharing creates a shared pair of electrons between the two hydrogen atoms. The electron-dot structure of H₂ is represented by two dots (or a single line) between the H atoms. Through this sharing, each hydrogen atom achieves the stable electronic configuration of the nearest noble gas, helium, which has two electrons in its K shell. This process of electron sharing in covalent bonds ensures both hydrogen atoms attain a full outer electron shell, forming a stable H₂ molecule.