Halogen Compounds and Reactions (Demo)

The halogens, located in Group 17 of the periodic table, are a highly reactive family of non-metals that includes fluorine, chlorine, bromine, iodine, and astatine. Each halogen has seven electrons in its outer shell, making these elements eager to gain one more electron to form –1 ions. As a result, they readily react with metals to form salts and with hydrogen to form acidic compounds. Their reactivity decreases down the group, while their melting and boiling points increase. Studying the halogens highlights clear periodic trends and demonstrates how electron configuration influences chemical properties.