Question:medium

Write general characteristics of interhalogen compounds.

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The general formula is \(XX'_n\) where \(n = 1, 3, 5, 7\) and \(X\) is the larger, less electronegative halogen.
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Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Interhalogen compounds are molecules formed by the reaction of two different halogens with each other (e.g., \(ClF_3\), \(IBr\)).
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
1. Bonding: They are essentially covalent molecules.
2. Physical state: They can be gases, liquids, or solids at room temperature.
3. Magnetic Property: They are diamagnetic as they contain only paired electrons.
4. Reactivity: Interhalogen compounds are generally more reactive than the individual constituent halogens (except \(F_2\)) because the \(X-X'\) bond is weaker than the \(X-X\) bond (due to unequal size and electronegativity).
5. Hydrolysis: On hydrolysis, they give a halide ion from the smaller halogen and an oxyhalide ion from the larger halogen.
Step 4: Final Answer:
Interhalogens are covalent, diamagnetic, and highly reactive compounds.
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