Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

covalently

Adverb

/kəʊˈveɪləntli/

Definition

In a manner that relates to the sharing of electron pairs between atoms in a chemical bond.

Examples

Water molecules bond covalently, forming strong connections between hydrogen and oxygen atoms.
In organic compounds, carbon atoms are often bonded covalently with other elements like hydrogen and oxygen.
Covalently bonded substances usually have distinct properties compared to ionic compounds.

Meaning

Covalently refers to the way in which two or more atoms are connected through covalent bonds, wherein they share electrons to achieve stability in their outer electron shells.