Nonpolar bond

Definition

A covalent bond between atoms of equal electronegativity in which electrons are shared symmetrically.

When identical atoms bond, such as the two oxygens in O2, their pull on the shared electrons is the same and the charge distribution stays balanced. Each oxygen needs two more electrons, so they form a double bond of two shared pairs. With no charge separation the bond carries no permanent dipole.

Related concepts

Covalent bond · Polar covalent bond · Electronegativity

---

Part of The Blueprint of Water · 🧪 chemistry