interhalogenoxide

Interhalogen oxides are a class of chemical compounds composed of two different halogen atoms bridged by an oxygen atom. They form a subset of interhalogen compounds and are typically highly reactive oxidizers. In most cases, the molecule has a halogen–oxygen–halogen core (X–O–Y) with X and Y being different halogens such as chlorine, bromine or iodine. The bonds are polar covalent, and the O atom often adopts a bent geometry, with short X–O and O–Y distances. Many interhalogen oxides are unstable at room temperature and exist only as fleeting species in the gas phase or as low-temperature condensed-phase materials; some have been isolated or matrix-stabilized for study, while others are detected spectroscopically in laboratory or atmospheric contexts.

Examples of interhalogen oxides include chlorine oxybromide (ClOBr) and bromine oxychloride (BrOCl). The family is diverse, with different halogen combinations giving varying oxidation states and stabilities.

Synthesis and handling typically involve reacting a halogen with a halogen oxide or oxidizing a mixture of halogens with oxygen or ozone at low temperatures. Due to their oxidizing power and sensitivity to heat and light, interhalogen oxides are handled under strict inert or cryogenic conditions and stored only briefly.

Reactivity and applications: Interhalogen oxides participate in halogen–oxide chemistry and can act as oxidants or halogen-transfer reagents. In atmospheric chemistry, they are discussed as potential reservoirs of reactive halogen atoms, releasing radicals upon decomposition.

Safety: They are strong oxidizers and corrosive; some species are shock-sensitive or explosive. Appropriate precautions, controlled conditions, and proper containment are essential when working with these compounds.