Which type of bond is characterized by the equal sharing of electrons between two nonmetals with the same electronegativity?

Study for the ALEKS Placement Chemistry Exam. Review flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready for your chemistry exam!

The type of bond characterized by the equal sharing of electrons between two nonmetals with the same electronegativity is a nonpolar covalent bond. This occurs because when two identical nonmetals bond together, they attract the shared electrons equally due to their identical electronegativity values. As a result, there is no charge separation within the molecule, maintaining a symmetrical electron distribution.

In contrast, ionic bonds involve a complete transfer of electrons from one atom to another, typically between a metal and a nonmetal, leading to charged ions. Polar covalent bonds, on the other hand, occur when two nonmetals with differing electronegativities share electrons unequally, resulting in a dipole moment. The term "covalent bond" is a broader classification that includes both polar and nonpolar bonds, so while it could be seen as correct, it does not specifically define the equal sharing characteristic that defines nonpolar covalent bonds. Therefore, the most precise answer to the question is that it describes a nonpolar covalent bond.

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