In a covalent bond, are electrons always shared equally between the atoms involved?

• A. Yes, electrons are always shared equally in covalent bonds.
• B. Yes, but only if the atoms are of the same element.
• C. No, electrons are shared unequally if the atoms have different $\mathrm{electronegativities}$.
• D. No, electrons are never shared equally in covalent bonds.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of a covalent bond: A covalent bond is a chemical bond that involves the sharing of electron pairs between atoms.
2. Recognize the role of electronegativity: Electronegativity is the ability of an atom to attract shared electrons in a covalent bond. Different atoms have different electronegativities.
3. Identify the types of covalent bonds: If two atoms have the same or very similar electronegativities, they share electrons equally, forming a nonpolar covalent bond. If the electronegativities are different, the electrons are shared unequally, resulting in a polar covalent bond.
4. Analyze the given options: The statement 'Yes, but only if the atoms are of the same element' is correct for nonpolar covalent bonds, where atoms like H2, O2, or N2 share electrons equally.
5. Conclude with the correct answer: The correct answer is 'No, electrons are shared unequally if the atoms have different electronegativities,' which describes polar covalent bonds.