A molecule is the smallest unit of a compound that still has the compound’s properties attached to it. Molecules are made up of two or more atoms held together by covalent bonds.


In the space where electrons from different atoms interact with each other, chemical bonds form. The electrons in the outermost shell are the ones that form the bonds with other atoms.


When the atoms share the electron(s), a covalent bond is formed. Electrons aren’t perfect, though, and usually an electron is more attracted to one atom than another, which forms a polar covalent bond between atoms (like in water, H2O).


While it may seem a bit random right now, with a little bit of study, you’ll find you can soon understand how molecules are formed and the shapes they choose once you figure out the types of bonds that can form.


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