Which bond is typically characterized by the sharing of electrons among nonmetal atoms?

Covalent bonds are characterized by the sharing of electrons between nonmetal atoms. This type of bond occurs when two nonmetals come together and their atomic orbitals overlap, allowing them to share one or more pairs of electrons. This sharing leads to the formation of a stable molecule, as both atoms achieve a full outer electron shell, which is often essential for stability according to the octet rule.

In contrast, ionic bonds involve the transfer of electrons from one atom to another, typically between a metal and a nonmetal, resulting in the formation of charged ions. Hydrogen bonds are weak attractions that occur between a hydrogen atom covalently bonded to a highly electronegative atom and another electronegative atom, rather than a sharing of electrons. Electron affinity refers to the energy change when an electron is added to an atom, not a type of bonding. Therefore, covalent bonds are the most fitting answer, as they specifically describe the sharing of electrons in a way that defines the interaction between nonmetal atoms.