Interhalogen compounds () are generally more reactive than their parent halogens (except ). What fundamental property accounts for this increased reactivity?

Question

Interhalogen compounds ($AX_n$) are generally more reactive than their parent halogens (except $F_2$). What fundamental property accounts for this increased reactivity?

Prashant Kotian · Accepted Answer

Correct answer: A. The covalent bond between two different halogens (A-X) in an interhalogen is highly polar due to electronegativity differences. This makes the A-X bond significantly weaker than the non-polar X-X bond of parent halogens (like ), leading to a lower activation energy and higher reactivity.

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