In the context of covalent bonds, what differentiates single and double bonds?

Single and double covalent bonds are distinguished by the number of electron pairs they share between two atoms. A single bond involves the sharing of one pair of electrons, which connects the two atoms and creates a stable interaction. In contrast, a double bond consists of the sharing of two pairs of electrons. This arrangement generally results in a stronger bond compared to a single bond because more electrons are involved in the bond formation, thereby increasing the attraction between the atoms.

Understanding this fundamental difference is crucial for grasping how molecules are structured and how they interact chemically. The presence of double bonds can also significantly influence the geometry and reactivity of the molecule, which is essential in fields like organic chemistry and biochemistry.