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Halide: meaning, definitions and examples

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halide

 

[ ˈheΙͺ.laΙͺd ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

chemical compound

A halide is a compound formed from a halogen and another element, usually a metal. Halides are important in various chemical reactions and are commonly found in salts. They can be classified as ionic or covalent based on the nature of the bond formed.

Synonyms

binary compound, halogenide, salt

Examples of usage

  • Sodium chloride is a common halide.
  • The researchers studied different halides for their reactivity.
  • Halides play a crucial role in organic synthesis.
  • The presence of halides can affect the solubility of minerals.

Etymology

The term 'halide' originates from the Latin word 'halis' which means 'salt'. It was first introduced in the early 19th century as chemists began to classify and name various chemical compounds systematically. The concept arose from the study of halogens, a group of elements in Group 17 of the periodic table, which includes fluorine, chlorine, bromine, iodine, and astatine. The name reflects the nature of these elements, which readily react with metals to form salts. The systematic study of halides became more prominent with the development of modern chemistry, particularly with the work of scientists like Dmitri Mendeleev, who contributed to our understanding of periodicity and chemical bonding. Halides are now fundamental in numerous fields, including biology, chemistry, and environmental science, illustrating their significant role in both natural and synthetic processes.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,068, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.