Halide

Halide is a binary compound, of which one part is a halogen atom and the other part is an element or radical. Halides are a subset of the broader class of salts. Halides include fluoride, chloride, bromide, iodide, and astatide. Many synthetic organic compounds such as plastic polymers, and a few natural ones, contain halide ions.

Properties

Halides are generally soluble in water and have well-defined crystalline structures. They have high melting and boiling points, and they conduct electricity when molten or in solution but not as a solid. They tend to be colorless, although this is not always the case.

Uses

Halides have a wide range of uses. They are used in the production of photographic film, in the manufacture of dyes, and in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals. They are also used in fire suppression systems and in the production of pesticides.

Health effects

Exposure to halides can have a range of health effects, depending on the specific halide and the level of exposure. For example, exposure to fluoride can cause dental fluorosis, while exposure to chloride can cause respiratory problems. Bromide exposure can cause skin rashes and iodide exposure can cause thyroid problems.

See also

• Halogen
• Salt
• Fluoride
• Chloride
• Bromide
• Iodide
• Astatide

Halide Resources
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