"Halogens" Natural Recordings by Native Speakers
Halogens are a group of nonmetal elements that are highly reactive and are typically found in the seventh group of the periodic table. The halogens include fluorine (F), chlorine (Cl), bromine (Br), iodine (I), and astatine (At). They are characterized by their ability to readily lose one electron to form a singly charged ion (an anion), and they are often found in compounds with other elements, such as hydrogen and metals.
Halogenated refers to a substance that has been treated with a halogen (fluorine, chlorine, bromine, iodine, or astatine), usually to make it more reactive or to create a specific property. The addition of a halogen to a molecule can alter its chemical and physical properties, making it suitable for various applications in industries such as textiles, plastics, pharmaceuticals, and more. Examples of halogenated compounds include fluorinated medicines, chlorine-scoured fabrics, and brominated flame retardants.
Halon is a type of inorganic halogenated fire extinguishing agent. It is a non-flammable, non-toxic gas that is used to extinguish electrical fires and fires involving flammable liquids. Halons are typically used in portable fire extinguishers, fire suppression systems, and aircraft fire extinguishing systems. They are considered effective against Class B and Class C fires, but not for fires involving ordinary combustible materials.