When two oxygen atoms combine to form a molecule of O_2, how many covalent bonds are expected to form between them?

• A. Two bonds (a double bond)
• B. Three bonds (a triple bond)
• C. One single bond
• D. Two double bonds

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that a covalent bond forms when two atoms share electrons to achieve a more stable electron configuration, typically resembling the nearest noble gas configuration.
2. Determine the number of valence electrons for each oxygen atom. Oxygen is in group 16, so each oxygen atom has 6 valence electrons.
3. Calculate the total number of valence electrons available for bonding between the two oxygen atoms: \$6 + 6 = 12$ electrons.
4. Recognize that each oxygen atom needs 8 electrons to complete its octet, so they share electrons to fill their outer shells. Sharing two pairs of electrons (4 electrons total) forms a double bond.
5. Conclude that the two oxygen atoms form a double bond, which means two covalent bonds between them, resulting in the O\(_2\) molecule.