Question

What are three useful applications of halogen?

Answer 1

Hint: Halogens belong to the 17^th group of the periodic table. The elements of the 17^th group are chlorine, fluorine, iodine, bromine, xenon etc. These elements possess the nature of high electronegativity as they contain seven numbers of electrons in the outermost shell.

Complete Step by Step Solution:
Let's understand some characteristics of halogens.
1) Halogens are non-metallic in nature.
2) They undergo reaction metals to give compounds forming salts.
3) They require only one electron to fill their valence shell.
4) They always form diatomic molecules.
5) The bond formed by them is of covalent nature.
6) The configuration of the valence shell of them is of \[n{s^2}n{p^5}\].

Based on the properties let's discuss some applications of halogens.
1) The halogen fluorine is used in the manufacturing of toothpaste in order to protect the enamel.
2) Chlorine is useful in the purification of water. It is used in the form of sodium hypochlorite to disinfect water in swimming pools and drinking water. Its use in the treatment of infections, and allergies is also significant. It is also the main component of polyvinyl chloride (PVC).
3) Iodine is also useful because of its antiseptic properties. Its use in the cleaning of wounds is significant. It is also required in the human body for the thyroid gland's well. Its deficiency in the human body causes goitre.

Note: Some of the physical properties of halogens are that they are present in various colours, chlorine and fluorine are gases, bromine is a liquid and iodine is present as solids. The chlorine and fluorine are soluble in water but solubility in water is less in bromine and iodine.