Why are electrons shared in molecular compounds? There are multiple correct answers A. So that both atoms can achieve Nobel Gas configurations B. To lower the overall energy of the compound and increase its stability C. Because sharing is caring D. To increase the overall energy of the molecule and decrease its stability E. So that both elements can have a full valence shells F. Because the positive and negative ions are attracted to each other by electrostatic forces
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answers are:
A. So that both atoms can achieve Noble Gas configurations
B. To lower the overall energy of the compound and increase its stability
E. So that both elements can have full valence shells
Explanation
Electrons are shared in molecular compounds primarily to help atoms achieve full valence shells, which is a condition associated with maximum stability in chemistry. This concept is based on the octet rule, which states that atoms are most stable when they have eight electrons in their outermost shell (except hydrogen and helium, which are stable with two).
Answer A and Answer E are both correct because they refer to the idea that atoms form covalent (shared-electron) bonds to reach the same electron configuration as noble gases—elements that naturally possess full valence shells and are chemically inert. For example, in a water molecule (H₂O), each hydrogen atom shares one electron with oxygen to achieve a helium-like configuration (2 electrons), while oxygen shares electrons to complete its octet (8 electrons).
Answer B is also correct because when atoms share electrons to form a bond, the resulting molecule is at a lower energy state than the separate atoms. This release of energy upon bond formation is a hallmark of increased stability. In molecular compounds, the shared electrons occupy the space between nuclei, creating an attractive force that holds the atoms together.
On the other hand, Answer C (“Because sharing is caring”) is humorous and not scientifically valid.
Answer D is incorrect because the goal of bond formation is to lower, not increase, the system’s energy.
Answer F describes ionic bonding, not covalent bonding. In ionic compounds, electrons are transferred—not shared—and positive and negative ions are held together by electrostatic forces.
In summary, electron sharing in molecular compounds occurs because it allows atoms to reach a more stable, lower-energy state with full valence shells, mimicking the configuration of noble gases. This is the driving force behind covalent bonding, the basis of molecular compound formation.
