Fluorine (F)

Atomic Number9
Atomic Mass18.9984031636 u
CategoryDiatomic nonmetal
Electron Config[He] 2s² 2p⁵
Appearancepale yellow gas
Density (STP)1.696 g/L
Melting Point53.48 K
Boiling Point85.03 K
Electronegativity3.98 (Pauling)
Ionization Energy1681 kJ/mol
Atomic Radius50 pm
Crystal StructureBase-centered Monoclinic
Discovered ByAndré-Marie Ampère (1886)

Brief Introduction

Fluorine (F) is a pale yellow-green, highly toxic and corrosive diatomic gas and the most electronegative and reactive of all elements. It reacts with almost all materials, including noble gases under certain conditions. Key details about Fluorine (F) are as follows:

Uses: Used in producing uranium hexafluoride (UF₆) for nuclear fuel enrichment, fluoropolymers like Teflon (PTFE), refrigerants and propellants (historically CFCs, now HFCs and HFOs), dental products (fluoridated toothpaste and water), and pharmaceuticals (many drugs contain fluorine).

Production/Extraction: Produced through electrolysis of hydrogen fluoride (HF) dissolved in potassium fluoride (KF). Fluorite (CaF₂) is the primary mineral source. Industrial production is energy-intensive and hazardous.

History: One of the most difficult elements to isolate due to its extreme reactivity. Henri Moissan first isolated it in 1886 through electrolysis, earning the Nobel Prize in 1906. Many earlier attempts resulted in poisoning and death.

Health Effects & Safety: Extremely dangerous—fluorine gas is highly toxic and corrosive to all tissues. Hydrogen fluoride is particularly hazardous. Fluoride in small amounts prevents tooth decay but is toxic in larger doses. Requires specialized handling equipment.

Price/Market: Expensive due to difficult production and handling requirements. Critical for nuclear industry, refrigeration, and specialized chemical manufacturing.

Properties: Most electronegative element (4.0 on Pauling scale), extremely reactive (reacts with nearly everything), exists only in -1 oxidation state in compounds, pale yellow-green gas, and strongest oxidizing agent.

← Oxygen (O) · Neon (Ne) →

Periodic Table