(N/A) The existence of a $100\%$ ionic or covalent bond represents an ideal situation. In reality,no bond or compound is either completely covalent or ionic. Even in the case of a covalent bond between two hydrogen atoms,there is some ionic character.
Non-polar covalent bond: When a covalent bond is formed between two similar atoms,the shared pair of electrons is equally attracted by the two atoms. As a result,the electron pair is situated exactly between the two identical nuclei. The bond so formed is called a non-polar covalent bond.
Example: Non-polar covalent bonds in $H_2, N_2, O_2, F_2, Cl_2$.
| Molecule | $H_2, N_2, O_2, F_2, Cl_2$ |
| Bond structure | $H-H, N \equiv N, O=O, F-F, Cl-Cl$ |
Polar covalent bond: When atoms of two different elements (heteronuclear) combine by a covalent bond,the electron pair in the bond is attracted more by the more electronegative atom. Consequently,it acquires a partial negative charge $(-\delta)$ and the other atom acquires a partial positive charge $(+\delta)$. Such a covalent bond is called a polar covalent bond.
In an $AB$ molecule,if $A$ is less electronegative and $B$ is more electronegative,the $A-B$ bond will be $A^{+\delta}-B^{-\delta}$ (polar bond).
| Molecule | $HF$ | $HCl$ | $CO$ | $NO$ |
| Real bond | $H^{+\delta}-F^{-\delta}$ | $H^{+\delta}-Cl^{-\delta}$ | $C^{+\delta} \equiv O^{-\delta}$ | $N^{+\delta}=O^{-\delta}$ |