Nonmetals can form different types of bonds depending on their partner atoms. Ionic bonds form when a nonmetal and a metal exchange electrons, while covalent bonds form when electrons are shared between two nonmetals. ... A given nonmetal atom can form a single, double, or triple bond with another nonmetal.

Why can't nonmetals form ionic bonds?

Ionic bonds form only between metals and nonmetals. That's because metals “want” to give up electrons, and nonmetals “want” to gain electrons.

Do nonmetals have covalent or ionic bonds?

In general, covalent bonds form between nonmetals, ionic bonds form between metals and nonmetals, and metallic bonds form between metals.