Which of the following best describes two atoms of oxygen that are chemically bonded to each other?

• A. A polyatomic ion with a triple covalent bond
• B. A compound formed by metallic bonding
• C. A diatomic molecule with a single ionic bond
• D. A diatomic molecule with a double covalent bond

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the type of atoms involved: two oxygen atoms are identical nonmetals.
2. Recall that oxygen atoms typically form covalent bonds by sharing electrons to achieve a full octet.
3. Understand that two oxygen atoms bonded together form a diatomic molecule, meaning the molecule consists of two atoms.
4. Determine the bond type between the two oxygen atoms: oxygen commonly forms a double covalent bond (sharing two pairs of electrons) rather than a single or triple bond in O2.
5. Conclude that the correct description is a diatomic molecule with a double covalent bond, as this matches the bonding and molecular structure of O2.