What is the difference between covalent and dative covalent bonds?

These two types of bonding are very similar and so can easily be confused however this question specifically wants the difference between them. Covalent bonding occurs when a pair of nuclei share a pair of electrons with one electron being donated by each atom. In dative covalent bonding the same principle of sharing electrons between two nuclei applies except in this case both of the electrons involved in bonding are donated by one of the atoms. i.e. one atom doesn't donate any bonding electrons but the other donates both electrons required for bonding.

CH
Answered by Caroline H. Chemistry tutor

48350 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

How does a acid buffer work?


Describe the arrangement of protons, neutrons and electrons in an atom of Neon (Atomic No. 10, Atomic Weight 20.18). You may use diagrams to aid you.


0.04 moles of sulfur trioxide is placed in a flask (1.50dm^3) and allowed to reach equilibrium at 600 degrees. If 30% of the sulfur trioxide decomposes to sulfur dioxide and oxygen - what is the equilibrium constant?


How do I get better at organic synthesis?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning