How is a covalent bond formed? an atom gives one or more of its electrons away to another atom. two atoms share a pair of electrons in their outer shell. valence electrons move freely through a set of positively charged ions. two atoms chemically react to create a single atom of another element.

Covalent bonds form when atoms share their valence electrons with other atoms to become a more stable molecule.

Explanation: Atoms form covalent bonds as a result of the Octet Rule. The Octet Rule states that all atoms in a molecule need to have eight electrons in their valence shell. This rule can be satisfied by sharing, losing or gaining electrons. A covalent bond allows atoms to satisfy the Octet Rule via sharing.