What defines a molecular compound?

A molecular compound is characterized by the sharing of electrons between nonmetal atoms, which means that the atoms involved form covalent bonds. In a molecular compound, two or more nonmetals come together to fill their valence shells by sharing pairs of electrons, allowing them to achieve greater stability. The resulting structure is typically composed of distinct molecules, each held together by covalent bonds.

This distinction is important because it contrasts with ionic compounds, which form through the transfer of electrons from one atom (usually a metal) to another (usually a nonmetal), resulting in the formation of charged ions that are held together by strong electrostatic forces. Therefore, an understanding of electron sharing versus electron transfer is essential in differentiating molecular compounds from other types of compounds.