ASChemistryEdexcelRevision Notes1. Physical ChemistryBondingCovalent Bonding Overview

Covalent Bonding Overview (Edexcel AS Chemistry): Revision Note

Exam code: 8CH0

Written by: Philippa Platt

Reviewed by: Caroline Carroll

Updated on 23 October 2026

Covalent Bonding

Covalent bonding occurs between two non-metals
A covalent bond is the electrostatic attraction between the nuclei of two atoms and a shared pair of electrons
No electrons are transferred but only shared in this type of bonding

Two atoms, each with a positive nucleus and one electron, sharing their electrons to form a covalent bond in a molecule

The positive nucleus of each atom has an attraction for the bonding electrons shared in the covalent bond

Non-metals are able to share pairs of electrons to form different types of covalent bonds
Sharing electrons in the covalent bond allows each of the 2 atoms to achieve an electron configuration similar to a noble gas
- This makes each atom more stable

Covalent Bonds & Shared Electrons Table

Type of covalent bond	Number of electrons shared
Single (C-C)	2
Double (C=C)	4
Triple (C≡C)	6

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Author: Philippa Platt

Expertise: Chemistry Content Creator

Philippa has worked as a GCSE and A level chemistry teacher and tutor for over thirteen years. She studied chemistry and sport science at Loughborough University graduating in 2007 having also completed her PGCE in science. Throughout her time as a teacher she was incharge of a boarding house for five years and coached many teams in a variety of sports. When not producing resources with the chemistry team, Philippa enjoys being active outside with her young family and is a very keen gardener

Reviewer: Caroline Carroll

Expertise: Head of Content Delivery

Caroline graduated from the University of Nottingham with a degree in Chemistry and Molecular Physics. She spent several years working as an Industrial Chemist in the automotive industry before retraining to teach. Caroline has over 12 years of experience teaching GCSE and A-level chemistry and physics. She is passionate about delivering high-quality resources to help students achieve their full potential.