chapter 7.  ELEMENTS OF GROUPS 16, 17 AND 18 class 12 chemistry textbook solution

Answer:-

Interhalogen compounds are chemical compounds composed of two or more different halogen elements. These compounds typically form between halogens located in adjacent groups of the periodic table, such as those in Group 17 (the halogens), and they can have various stoichiometries. Interhalogen compounds are interesting because they often exhibit distinctive chemical properties, such as reactivity and physical properties that differ from those of the individual halogens.

Here are two examples of interhalogen compounds:

1. Chlorine Trifluoride (ClF3):

   • Chlorine trifluoride is an interhalogen compound composed of chlorine (Cl) and fluorine (F).
   • Its chemical formula is ClF3.
   • Chlorine trifluoride is a pale yellow to reddish-brown gas at room temperature and is highly reactive.
   • It is known for its extreme reactivity and ability to ignite various substances on contact, including glass, sand, and asbestos. It is sometimes referred to as “substance N.”
   • ClF3 is used in some specialized chemical processes, but it must be handled with extreme caution due to its reactivity.

2. Bromine Pentafluoride (BrF5):

   • Bromine pentafluoride is another interhalogen compound composed of bromine (Br) and fluorine (F).
   • Its chemical formula is BrF5.
   • Bromine pentafluoride is a colorless to pale yellow liquid at room temperature and is a strong fluorinating agent.
   • It is used as a fluorinating reagent in organic synthesis and can be employed to introduce fluorine atoms into various compounds.

Interhalogen compounds like these exhibit a wide range of physical properties and chemical behaviors, making them valuable in certain chemical reactions and industrial applications. Their reactivity often stems from the differences in electronegativity and atomic size between the halogens involved in their composition.