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4. Characteristics of Covalent Compound

A. Boiling Point
In general, covalent compounds have low boiling points (average

temperature below 200˚C). The low boiling point of covalent compounds is due to
the weak attractive forces between molecules, so they do not require high energy

to separate.

For example water, H2O is a covalent compound. The covalent bonds that

bind between hydrogen atoms and oxygen atoms in water molecules are quite
strong, while the binding forces between water molecules are quite weak. This

situation causes water in the liquid phase (form) to easily turn into water vapor
when heated to about 100˚C, but at this temperature the covalent bonds in the H2O

molecule do not break.

B. Volatility

Figure. Examples of Volatility in everyday life
Most covalent compounds are volatile liquids and gases. Molecules in

covalent compounds that have volatile properties often produce a distinctive odor.
Perfumes and fragrances are covalent compounds, examples of volatile covalent

compounds.

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