Question

Write general characteristics of interhalogen compounds.

Hint:

The general formula is \(XX'_n\) where \(n = 1, 3, 5, 7\) and \(X\) is the larger, less electronegative halogen.

Answer 1

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Interhalogen compounds are molecules containing two or more different halogen atoms (e.g., \(ICl, BrF_3, IF_7\)).
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Key characteristics include:
1. Bonding: They are essentially covalent compounds.
2. Magnetism: They are diamagnetic in nature because all electrons are paired.
3. Reactivity: They are generally more reactive than the individual halogens (except Fluorine) because the bond between two different halogens (\(X-X'\)) is weaker than the bond between two identical halogens (\(X-X\)).
4. Physical State: They can be gases, liquids, or solids at room temperature.
5. Hydrolysis: Upon hydrolysis, they yield a halide ion from the smaller halogen and an oxyhalide ion from the larger halogen.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Interhalogen compounds are covalent, polar, diamagnetic, and chemically more reactive than constituent halogens (excluding \(F_2\)).