Consider the following statements with reference to halogens: All a...
- The halogens are a series of non-metal elements in the periodic table consisting of five chemically related elements: fluorine (F), chlorine (Cl), bromine (Br), iodine (I), and astatine (At). The recently artificially created element 117, Tennessine (Ts), may also be a halogen. In the modern IUPAC nomenclature, this group is known as group 17.
- The name "halogen" means "salt-producing". When halogens react with metals, they produce a wide range of salts, including calcium fluoride, sodium chloride (common table salt), silver bromide and potassium iodide.
- The group of halogens is the only periodic table group that contains elements in three of the main states of matter at standard temperature and pressure. All of the halogens form acids when bonded to hydrogen. Most halogens are typically produced from minerals or salts.
- The middle halogens—chlorine, bromine, and iodine—are often used as disinfectants in the water-purification system. Organobromides are the most important class of flame retardants, while elemental halogens are dangerous and can be lethally toxic.
- During springtime in the polar regions, unique photochemistry converts inert halide salt ions (e.g. Br−) into reactive halogen species (e.g. Br atoms and BrO) that deplete ozone in the boundary layer to near-zero levels. Hence the correct option is (d)
Consider the following statements with reference to halogens: All a...
All three statements given above are correct.
1. All halogens are non-metallic elements:
Halogens are a group of elements in the periodic table that includes fluorine, chlorine, bromine, iodine, and astatine. These elements are located in Group 17 or Group VIIA of the periodic table. Halogens are non-metals, which means they do not possess metallic properties like conductivity, malleability, or ductility. They typically have low melting and boiling points and exist as diatomic molecules in their elemental forms.
2. Halogens are widely used as water purification agents and pesticides:
Halogens, especially chlorine, are extensively used as water purification agents. Chlorine is added to water supplies to kill bacteria, viruses, and other harmful microorganisms, making the water safe for consumption. It effectively disinfects the water and prevents the spread of waterborne diseases. Similarly, halogens like chlorine and bromine are used as pesticides to control pests, insects, and weeds in agricultural and industrial applications.
3. Reactive halogens are primarily responsible for the ozone hole in the polar regions:
Reactive halogens, particularly chlorine and bromine compounds, are major contributors to the depletion of the ozone layer in the atmosphere. These compounds are released into the atmosphere through human activities such as the use of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and other ozone-depleting substances. Once in the atmosphere, these compounds can undergo photochemical reactions and release chlorine and bromine radicals. These radicals catalytically destroy ozone molecules, leading to the formation of the ozone hole, especially in the polar regions where specific atmospheric conditions promote the destruction of ozone.
In conclusion, all the given statements are correct. Halogens are non-metallic elements, widely used in water purification and as pesticides. Reactive halogens, specifically chlorine and bromine compounds, are primarily responsible for the formation of the ozone hole in the polar regions.