What type of elements typically form covalent bonds?

Covalent bonds are primarily formed between nonmetals. These elements have similar electronegativities, which allows them to share electrons rather than transferring them, as is common in ionic bonds. Nonmetals typically have high electronegativity values, and by sharing electrons, they can fill their outer electron shells, leading to stable molecules. This type of bond forms when the participating nonmetal atoms meet the electron sharing requirements, allowing both to achieve a more stable electronic configuration.

In contrast, metals tend to lose electrons and form metallic or ionic bonds rather than covalent bonds. Transition metals may form some covalent compounds, but they often engage in metallic bonding or form ions that participate in ionic bonding. Noble gases have complete outer electron shells and are typically inert, meaning they rarely form bonds, including covalent bonds. Thus, nonmetals are indeed the primary elements associated with the formation of covalent bonds.