Monoiodides

Monoiodides are chemical compounds containing a single iodine atom bonded to another element or group. These compounds are a subset of the larger class of iodides. The term "monoiodide" specifically emphasizes the presence of only one iodine atom per molecule or formula unit. Examples of monoiodides include alkali metal iodides such as sodium iodide (NaI) and potassium iodide (KI). These are typically ionic compounds where the alkali metal forms a cation and the iodide ion (I-) acts as the anion. Other examples include covalent monoiodides where iodine is bonded to a less electronegative element, such as boron monoiodide (BI3). However, BI3 is actually boron triiodide, so this is a less common usage. More accurately, a compound like methyl iodide (CH3I) can be considered a monoiodide, where a methyl group is covalently bonded to an iodine atom. The properties of monoiodides vary widely depending on the nature of the other element or group they are bonded to, ranging from soluble ionic salts to volatile covalent molecules. They are often utilized as intermediates in organic synthesis and in various industrial applications.