Covalent Compounds

Covalent compounds are compounds in which the atoms that are bonded share electrons with each other instead of transferring electrons from one to the other. While ionic compounds are usually formed when metals bond with non-metals, covalent compounds are formed when two non-metals bond with each other.

Primary General Properties (Exceptions always exist):

1) Covalent compounds generally have much lower melting and boiling points than ionic compounds.

2) Covalent compounds are soft and squishy (compared to ionic compounds, anyway).

3) Covalent compounds tend to be more flammable than ionic compounds.

4) Covalent compounds don't conduct electricity in water.

5) Covalent compounds aren't usually very soluble in water.