The halogens are Group 7 elements that you'll find absolutely... Show more
Biology
English Literature
SociologySign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
1 / 5
Group 7 - the Halogens
Meet the halogens - one of the most important groups you'll study in chemistry! These elements include fluorine, chlorine, bromine, iodine, astatine and tennessine, though you'll mainly focus on the first four.
What makes halogens special is their 7 outer shell electrons. This means they're just one electron away from having a complete outer shell, which explains why they're so desperate to react with other elements.
Quick Tip: Remember that halogens are all non-metals, making them quite different from the metals you'll find on the left side of the periodic table.
The Halogens
Since halogens have 7 outer shell electrons, they're incredibly reactive - always trying to grab that one extra electron to complete their outer shell. When they succeed, they form 1- ions (negatively charged particles).
You'll notice that halogen atoms are diatomic, meaning they naturally pair up with themselves. So instead of finding single fluorine atoms, you'll see F₂, Cl₂, Br₂, and so on.
This electron-grabbing behaviour makes halogens brilliant at forming compounds. They'll bond with pretty much anything that's willing to share or give up electrons!
Remember: The closer a halogen is to having 8 outer electrons, the more reactive it becomes - it's like being one step away from your goal!
Bonding and Reactions
Halogens are fantastic at making two types of bonds, depending on what they're reacting with. With non-metals, they form covalent bonds by sharing electrons. With metals, they create ionic bonds by stealing electrons completely.
The key to understanding halogen reactions is remembering they gain one electron to fill their outer shell. This makes them incredibly predictable - they almost always want to become 1- ions.
Because they're so close to having full outer shells, halogens react quickly and often dramatically. This is why chlorine gas is dangerous, but it's also why these elements are so useful in everyday products.
Study Hack: If you can remember "7 electrons = wants 1 more", you'll understand most halogen behaviour instantly!
Trends
Here's where halogens get really interesting - their reactivity decreases as you go down the group. Fluorine (at the top) is incredibly reactive, while iodine (further down) is much calmer.
This happens because atom size increases down the group. Larger atoms mean the outer electrons are further from the nucleus, so there's weaker attraction between them. It becomes harder for bigger atoms to attract that extra electron they need.
Meanwhile, melting and boiling points increase going down the group. This is because larger atoms have stronger intermolecular forces between them.
Memory Trick: Think of it like a magnet - the further away you are, the weaker the pull becomes!
Reactions
Halogens follow clear bonding rules: covalent bonds with non-metals and ionic bonds with metals. This makes predicting their behaviour much easier once you know what they're reacting with.
The most important reaction type you'll encounter is displacement reactions. More reactive halogens (higher up the group) can kick out less reactive ones from their compounds. It's like a chemical version of "survival of the fittest"!
For example, fluorine + sodium chloride → sodium fluoride + chlorine. The fluorine muscles in and displaces the chlorine because it's more reactive.
Exam Tip: In displacement reactions, always check which halogen is higher up the group - that's your winner!
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Most popular content: Periodic Trends
Most popular content in Chemistry
Most popular content
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
Understanding Group 7: The Halogens
The halogens are Group 7 elements that you'll find absolutely everywhere - from the fluoride in your toothpaste to the chlorine in swimming pools. These incredibly reactive non-metals follow predictable patterns that make chemistry much easier once you understand the... Show more
Group 7 - the Halogens
Meet the halogens - one of the most important groups you'll study in chemistry! These elements include fluorine, chlorine, bromine, iodine, astatine and tennessine, though you'll mainly focus on the first four.
What makes halogens special is their 7 outer shell electrons. This means they're just one electron away from having a complete outer shell, which explains why they're so desperate to react with other elements.
Quick Tip: Remember that halogens are all non-metals, making them quite different from the metals you'll find on the left side of the periodic table.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
The Halogens
Since halogens have 7 outer shell electrons, they're incredibly reactive - always trying to grab that one extra electron to complete their outer shell. When they succeed, they form 1- ions (negatively charged particles).
You'll notice that halogen atoms are diatomic, meaning they naturally pair up with themselves. So instead of finding single fluorine atoms, you'll see F₂, Cl₂, Br₂, and so on.
This electron-grabbing behaviour makes halogens brilliant at forming compounds. They'll bond with pretty much anything that's willing to share or give up electrons!
Remember: The closer a halogen is to having 8 outer electrons, the more reactive it becomes - it's like being one step away from your goal!
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Bonding and Reactions
Halogens are fantastic at making two types of bonds, depending on what they're reacting with. With non-metals, they form covalent bonds by sharing electrons. With metals, they create ionic bonds by stealing electrons completely.
The key to understanding halogen reactions is remembering they gain one electron to fill their outer shell. This makes them incredibly predictable - they almost always want to become 1- ions.
Because they're so close to having full outer shells, halogens react quickly and often dramatically. This is why chlorine gas is dangerous, but it's also why these elements are so useful in everyday products.
Study Hack: If you can remember "7 electrons = wants 1 more", you'll understand most halogen behaviour instantly!
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Trends
Here's where halogens get really interesting - their reactivity decreases as you go down the group. Fluorine (at the top) is incredibly reactive, while iodine (further down) is much calmer.
This happens because atom size increases down the group. Larger atoms mean the outer electrons are further from the nucleus, so there's weaker attraction between them. It becomes harder for bigger atoms to attract that extra electron they need.
Meanwhile, melting and boiling points increase going down the group. This is because larger atoms have stronger intermolecular forces between them.
Memory Trick: Think of it like a magnet - the further away you are, the weaker the pull becomes!
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Reactions
Halogens follow clear bonding rules: covalent bonds with non-metals and ionic bonds with metals. This makes predicting their behaviour much easier once you know what they're reacting with.
The most important reaction type you'll encounter is displacement reactions. More reactive halogens (higher up the group) can kick out less reactive ones from their compounds. It's like a chemical version of "survival of the fittest"!
For example, fluorine + sodium chloride → sodium fluoride + chlorine. The fluorine muscles in and displaces the chlorine because it's more reactive.
Exam Tip: In displacement reactions, always check which halogen is higher up the group - that's your winner!
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
5
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay
Similar Content
Periodic Table
Atomic Radius & Ionization Energy
ChemistryIntroduction To Chemistry
These notes help inform you on the basics of Chemistry and get you used to the terms used in this subject.
Chemistryhonors chem 1 final study guide
covers all material in honors chem 1 to study for a final or midterm exam
Chemistry10th
Basic Chemistry
This content contains atoms and elements, ion isotopes, and bonds
ChemistryAtomic Structure and Electron Movement
Understanding the location and movement of electrons within the atomic structure based on probability maps and orbital regions.
ChemistryCollege
10th grade honors chem
this is the study guide i made for myself for chem this year :) hopefully it helps
Chemistry9th
Most popular content: Periodic Trends
Most popular content in Chemistry
Most popular content
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user