halogen Any of a group of chemically related, nonmetallic elements that fall in group VII of the periodic table. The halogens are: The halogens are highly electronegative and react strongly with other elements and with organic compounds because they require only one electron to achieve a stable inert gas configuration. They produce crystalline salts, called halides, which conatin negative ions of the type F- (fluoride) and Cl- (chloride). The name halogen means salt-producer. Related category • INORGANIC CHEMISTRY Also on this site: Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living Encyclopedia of History Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site) |