Chemistry A-Level
bonding pairs
What bonding pairs means in Chemistry A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definition of bonding pairs
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain bonding pairs in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
Pairs of electrons shared with another atom.
Topics that use bonding pairs
- Shapes of simple molecules and ions (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- Electron pair repulsion
- lone pairs closing bond angles
- minimising repulsion
- order of repulsion strengths
- adjusting for charge
- angles in ions
- base bond angles
- charge clouds
Using bonding pairs in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Chemistry questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
Start free
All Chemistry A-Level termsA week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge