3.5 the covalent chemical bond:a model

Question 1

what is a model?

Answer 1

used to explain how nature operates on the microscopic level by using experiences in the macroscopic world. provides a framework to systematize chemical behavior.

Question 2

what are the numbers of bonds?

Answer 2

single=one pair of electrons are shared
double=two pairs of electrons are shared
triple=three pairs of electrons are shared

Question 3

why do models not equal reality?

Answer 3

1. oversimplified and are therefore often wrong
2. become more complicated and are modified as they age
3. underlying assumptions of a model must be properly understood
4. more is learned when a model is wrong than when it is right