Question

Why are electrons shared equally in oxygen but not in carbon monoxide

Answer 1

Answer:

In the case of $O_2$, the electrons are equally shares as there is no difference in electronegativity but on the other hand, in $CO$, carbon and oxygen has significantly electronegative difference and thus, electrons are more towards the oxygen atom.

Explanation:

Covalent bond is the bond which is formed with the sharing of the electrons between the two atoms which are taking part in the bond. It is generally formed between the atoms with similar electronegativity values.

It is the bond which is generally occurs within non metals as they share electrons to complete their octet.

The difference in the electronegativity values of the atoms involving in a covalent bond must not exceed the value of 1.7 .

Polar covalent compound: This compound is formed when difference in electronegativity between the atoms is present. When atoms of different elements combine, it results in the formation of polar covalent bond. For Example: $CO_2,NO_2$ etc..

Non-polar covalent compound: This compound is formed when there is no difference in electronegativity between the atoms. When atoms of the same element combine, it results in the formation of non-polar covalent bond. For Example: $N_2,O_2$ etc.

Thus, in the case of $O_2$, the electrons are equally shares as there is no difference in electronegativity but on the other hand, in $CO$, carbon and oxygen has significantly electronegative difference and thus, electrons are more towards the oxygen atom.