What is the term for the sharing of electrons between atoms?

The term for the sharing of electrons between atoms is a covalent bond. In a covalent bond, two or more atoms join together by sharing pairs of electrons, allowing each atom to attain a more stable electronic configuration. This type of bonding typically occurs between nonmetals, which have similar electronegativities and thus can effectively share electrons rather than transferring them completely, as seen in ionic bonds.

Covalent bonds can be classified as single, double, or triple bonds, depending on the number of electron pairs being shared between the atoms. Additionally, covalent bonds play a crucial role in forming various molecules that are essential for life, such as water, DNA, and proteins.

Understanding the structure and strength of covalent bonds is fundamental to the study of chemistry, biology, and many other sciences, as they influence the shapes and reactivity of molecules.