Halogens are a group of elements found in Group 17 of the periodic table. They include fluorine, chlorine, bromine, iodine, and astatine. These elements are known for their reactivity, especially with alkali metals, to form salts. For example, when sodium reacts with chlorine, it produces table salt, or sodium chloride.
Halogens exist in different states at room temperature. Fluorine and chlorine are gases, while bromine is a liquid, and iodine is a solid. They have various uses, such as in disinfectants, lighting, and even in the production of certain types of plastics. Their unique properties make them important in both