(SME) Physical Properties of the Halogens Flashcards
What kind of molecules are the halogens at room temperature?
Diatomic molecules.
What is the trend in boiling points for the halogens?
The boiling points increase down the group.
What is a diatomic molecule?
A molecule that is made up of two similar atoms.
What structure are the halogens?
Simple molecular structures.
What causes an instantaneous dipole?
A sudden imbalance of electrons in a non-polar molecule.
What can an instantaneous dipole do?
Induce a dipole to another non-polar molecule.
How can an instantaneous dipole induce another dipole?
The cloud of electrons repels the electrons to the other side of the neighbouring molecule.
What forces are between the diatomic molecules in the halogens?
Weak London forces.
What causes a greater instantaneous dipole-induced dipole force?
A greater number of electrons in the molecule.
When is the London force between molecules stronger and why?
The larger the molecule is, as there are more electrons.
Why do the boiling points increase down the halogens?
The molecules get larger so there are stronger London forces.