The bonds in methane (CH₄) are covalent. This means that the carbon atom and the four hydrogen atoms share their electrons rather than transferring them completely, which would create ionic bonds. Carbon has four valence electrons and needs four more to fill its outer shell, while each hydrogen atom has one valence electron and needs one more. By sharing electrons, carbon can effectively bond with four hydrogen atoms, allowing it to achieve a full outer shell and become stable.
Methane (CH4
CH
4
) is a gas that is found in small quantities in Earth’s atmosphere. Are the bonds in methane ionic or covalent according to their electronegativities, and how can one carbon atom bond with four hydrogen atoms based on their valence electrons? In three to five sentences, explain in easy words your answer.
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