XBrF

XBrF is a term used in chemistry to denote a hypothetical interhalogen compound with the formula XBrF, where X is a placeholder for a second electronegative element or substituent. It is not a defined, stand-alone compound in standard chemical catalogs; rather, it appears in theoretical discussions and computational studies to illustrate how a third substituent can influence the bonding and reactivity of a mixed-halogen system.

The exact identity of X determines the molecule’s symmetry, bond lengths, and stability. When X is a halogen heavier or lighter than bromine, different structural isomers and electronic structures are predicted. In many theoretical treatments, X is treated as an electropositive substituent or a pseudohalogen to examine trends in bond polarization and charge transfer among X–Br and Br–F bonds.

In practice, XBrF studies are largely computational, with geometry optimized by quantum chemical methods and properties such as bond dissociation energies, dipole moments, and vibrational frequencies reported. If prepared, synthesis would require controlled generation of the BrF fragment and its coupling to X under strictly anhydrous, inert conditions; the exact reagents and procedures depend strongly on the nature of X and the desired oxidation states.

Reactivity is typically high due to the polar Br–F bond and the electron-deficient central X fragment, with potential pathways including halogen exchange, oxidation of substrates, and decomposition to simpler halogen species. Because XBrF is not a cataloged material, safety and handling are context-specific to the chosen X and formation method.

See also Interhalogen compounds, BrF, and Halogen chemistry.