What type of particles are involved in the formation of covalent bonds?

Covalent bonds are formed when two atoms share electrons. This sharing occurs primarily between nonmetal atoms, which have similar electronegativities, allowing them to stabilize their outer electron shells through this interaction. The mutual attraction between the positively charged nuclei of the atoms and the shared electrons leads to a stable bond. Electrons are key participants in this bonding process, enabling atoms to achieve a more stable electronic configuration.

Protons, which reside in the nucleus and contribute to the positive charge of the atom, play a role in the overall balance of the atom but do not participate directly in bond formation. Neutrons, also located in the nucleus, contribute to the mass of the atom and help stabilize the nucleus but do not influence chemical bonding. Lastly, nuclei as a whole do not engage in the bond formation process; it is the electrons that create the covalent bond by being shared between the two atoms. Therefore, the role of electrons is central to the formation and stability of covalent bonds in molecular structures.