Alkyl iodides are organic compounds that contain an alkyl group bonded to an iodine atom. They are classified as haloalkanes, which are characterized by the presence of halogen atoms. Alkyl iodides can be used in various chemical reactions, including nucleophilic substitution, where the iodine atom is replaced by another group. These compounds are often used in organic synthesis and can serve as intermediates in the production of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. Due to the presence of the iodine atom, alkyl iodides can also exhibit unique properties, such as higher reactivity compared to other haloalkanes like alkyl bromides or alkyl chlorides.