Fluorido

Fluorido is a term used in chemistry to refer to species containing fluorine in the oxidation state of -1, most commonly the fluoride ion (F−) or fluoride-containing compounds. In English, the standard term is fluoride; in many languages, including Spanish, fluorido is used in related contexts. Fluorides appear across inorganic chemistry, materials science, and environmental discussions, ranging from simple salts to minerals and covalent fluorides.

In terms of chemistry, the fluoride ion is small and highly electronegative, forming strong ionic bonds in many salts. Fluoride salts such as sodium fluoride (NaF), potassium fluoride (KF), and magnesium fluoride (MgF2) are common, while calcium fluoride (CaF2) is relatively insoluble in water. Hydrofluoric acid (HF) is a weak acid; in aqueous solutions it partially dissociates to give F− and H3O+. Fluorine also forms covalent fluorides, such as certain metal fluorides and volatile fluorine compounds, illustrating the diversity of fluorine chemistry.

Fluorides occur naturally in minerals such as fluorite (CaF2) and apatite and are present in trace amounts in water and soils. Industrially, fluoride compounds are produced from fluorite and related minerals and are used as reagents, fluxes, or intermediates in various processes, including the manufacture of aluminum, glass, and ceramics. Fluoride is also used in dentistry and public health for cavity prevention, most commonly in toothpaste and drinking-water fluoridation.

Safety and environmental aspects are important for fluorides. Fluoride compounds vary in toxicity; excessive intake can cause dental or skeletal fluorosis. Hydrofluoric acid is highly corrosive and dangerous. Proper handling, storage, and waste management are essential, with regulatory guidelines guiding exposure limits and water quality.