Identify the correct statement. A. It is not possible for two atoms to share more than two electrons. B. A covalent bond has a lower potential energy than the two separate atoms. C. Single bonds are shorter than double bonds. D. A covalent bond is formed through the transfer of electrons from one atom to another. E. A pair of electrons involved in a covalent bond are sometimes referred to as lone pairs.

A. It is not possible for two atoms to share more than two electrons. FALSE. Atoms also can share 4 electrons (double bond) or 6 electrons (triple bond).

B. A covalent bond has a lower potential energy than the two separate atoms. TRUE.

C. Single bonds are shorter than double bonds. FALSE. Single bonds are longer than double bonds.

D. A covalent bond is formed through the transfer of electrons from one atom to another. FALSE. In covalent bonds, electrons are shared, not transferred from one atom to another.

E. A pair of electrons involved in a covalent bond are sometimes referred to as lone pairs. FALSE. Lone pairs are those that do not participate in a bond.