Fluorine
Description
A chemical element that, when pure, is a pale-yellow, toxic gas. Fluorine occurs naturally in the form of mineral Fluorite, Cryolite, and Fluorapatite. Henri Moissan of France received a Nobel Prize for first isolating fluorine in 1886. Fluorine is the most electronegative and reactive element known. It reacts vigorously with most substances at room temperature, combining with all other elements except Helium, Neon, and Argon. Fluorine reacts violently with organic compounds. Fluorine is similar to other halogen elements in that it forms singly charged negative ions in solution. Fluorine is used in the production of fluorides and fluorocarbons.
Synonyms and Related Terms
F; Fluor (Ned., Fr., Deut., Sven.); fluoro (It.); Flúor (Port., Esp.)
Risks
- Toxic by inhalation.
- Contact results in thermal and chemical burns.
- May react violently with many compounds.
- Airgas: SDS
Physical and Chemical Properties
Decomposes in water to form hydrofluoric acid.
| Composition | F (atomic no. 9) |
|---|---|
| CAS | 7782-41-4 |
| Melting Point | -223 C |
| Density | 1.108 g/ml |
| Molecular Weight | atomic wt=18.9984 |
| Boiling Point | -188.14 C |
Resources and Citations
- Web Elements: Website