What is a coordinate covalent bond?

A coordinate covalent bond, also known as a dative bond, is a type of covalent bond where both electrons come from the same atom. In a typical covalent bond, each atom contributes one electron to form the shared pair of electrons. However, in a coordinate covalent bond, one atom provides both electrons to form the bond.

This type of bond is commonly seen in coordination complexes, where a central metal atom donates electron pairs to surrounding ligands. The ligands, which are often small molecules or ions, can form coordinate covalent bonds with the metal atom by accepting electron pairs.

Coordinate covalent bonds are often represented using an arrow pointing from the donor atom to the acceptor atom, indicating the direction of electron donation. This arrow distinguishes coordinate covalent bonds from regular covalent bonds, where electrons are shared between atoms. These bonds are often stronger and more stable than regular covalent bonds due to the close interaction between the two atoms involved.