Home > Interhalogen

The interhalogens of form XY have physical properties intermediate between those of the two parent halogens. The covalent bond between the two atoms has some ionic character, the less electronegative element, X, being oxidised and having a partial positive charge. All possible combinations of F, Cl, Br and I are known (little is known of the chemistry of At).

Some compounds of the general formula XY_n are known, where n is 3, 5 or 7 (X, again, is the less electronegative of the two). ClF₃ is used in the manufacture of Uranium hexafluoride. They are all prone to hydrolysis, and ionise to give rise to polyatomic cations and anions.