Final answer:
A nonmetal bonding with another nonmetal forms a molecular compound through covalent bonding, where they share electron pairs to achieve stable electronic configurations.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a nonmetal bonds with another nonmetal, a molecular compound forms through the process of covalent bonding. This type of bond involves the sharing of electron pairs between atoms, allowing each to fill its valence electron shell and achieve a more stable electronic configuration.
For instance, two chlorine atoms share one electron each to form a chlorine molecule (Cl2), with a single covalent bond holding them together.
Molecules like water (H2O), methane (CH4), and oxygen gas (O2) are all examples of molecular compounds formed by covalent bonds.
In some cases, when atoms share electrons equally, the bond is considered nonpolar covalent, as seen in O2. However, if there is a difference in electronegativity between the atoms, a polar covalent bond may result, where one atom has a stronger attraction for the shared electrons.