The strenght of covalent bond will depend on the extent to which atomic orbitals____.

Explanation

To solve the question regarding the strength of covalent bonds, we need to consider the role of atomic orbitals in bond formation. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

### Step 1: Understand Covalent Bonds
Covalent bonds are formed when two atoms share electrons. The strength of these bonds can vary based on how the atomic orbitals of the atoms involved interact.

**Hint:** Covalent bonds involve sharing of electrons between atoms.

### Step 2: Identify the Role of Atomic Orbitals
Atomic orbitals are regions around an atom's nucleus where electrons are likely to be found. When two atoms approach each other, their atomic orbitals can interact.

**Hint:** Think about how the regions where electrons are found can combine when atoms come close together.

### Step 3: Consider Orbital Overlap
The strength of a covalent bond is greatly influenced by the overlap of the atomic orbitals. The more significant the overlap between the orbitals of the two atoms, the stronger the bond will be.

**Hint:** Remember that the area where the orbitals overlap is crucial for bond strength.

### Step 4: Relate Overlap to Bond Strength
The extent of overlap can be quantified; greater overlap leads to stronger bonds. This is because a larger overlapping area allows for a more effective sharing of electrons.

**Hint:** Consider how two overlapping regions can lead to a stronger attraction between the nuclei of the atoms and the shared electrons.

### Step 5: Fill in the Blank
Based on the understanding that the strength of a covalent bond depends on how much the atomic orbitals overlap, we can fill in the blank in the question.

**Final Answer:** The strength of covalent bond will depend on the extent to which atomic orbitals **overlap**.

### Summary
In summary, the strength of a covalent bond is directly related to the extent of overlap between the atomic orbitals of the bonding atoms. More overlap results in a stronger bond.