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What phenomenon occurs when bonding electrons are equally shared between atoms?

  1. Ionic bond

  2. Polar covalent bond

  3. Nonpolar covalent bond

  4. Metallic bond

The correct answer is: Nonpolar covalent bond

When bonding electrons are equally shared between atoms, a nonpolar covalent bond is formed. In this type of bond, the atoms involved typically have similar electronegativities, which means they attract the bonding electrons at an equal level. As a result, there is no significant charge difference across the bond, leading to a balanced distribution of electron density. In contrast, ionic bonds occur when electrons are transferred from one atom to another, creating charged ions that are held together by electrostatic forces. Polar covalent bonds involve unequal sharing of electrons due to differences in electronegativity, resulting in a partial positive charge on one atom and a partial negative charge on the other. Metallic bonds, on the other hand, involve the sharing of free electrons among a lattice of metal atoms, leading to unique properties like electrical conductivity and malleability. Given this context, the definition aligns with the nature of nonpolar covalent bonds, making it the correct answer.