F

Fluorine

Quick Reference
Formula / NotationF
Molecular Weight19.00
CategoryElements

What is Fluorine?

Fluorine is the lightest halogen and the most electronegative and reactive of all elements. It is a pale yellow diatomic gas at room temperature. Fluorine forms compounds with almost every element, including noble gases. Its extreme reactivity makes it both invaluable industrially and highly hazardous.

Formula & Notation

F

Properties & Characteristics

Appearance: pale yellow gas. Melting point: −219.67 °C. Boiling point: −188.11 °C. Density (gas): 1.696 g/L. Electronegativity: 3.98 (Pauling scale, highest of all elements).

Uses & Applications

Production of uranium hexafluoride for nuclear fuel enrichment. Manufacture of fluoropolymers (PTFE/Teflon, PVDF). Etching silicon in semiconductor manufacturing. Fluoride in toothpaste and water fluoridation. Refrigerants (HFCs). Pharmaceuticals (many drugs contain C–F bonds).

Safety Information

Extremely corrosive and toxic. Causes severe chemical burns on contact with skin or mucous membranes. Hydrofluoric acid (HF) penetrates tissue and causes systemic fluoride poisoning. Reacts violently with water, organic materials, and most metals. GHS: Fatal if inhaled.

Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.

Key Facts

Term Fluorine
Formula F
Molecular Weight 19.00
Category Elements

Frequently Asked Questions

Fluorine is the lightest halogen and the most electronegative and reactive of all elements. It is a pale yellow diatomic gas at room temperature. Fluorine forms compounds with almost every element, including noble gases. Its extreme reactivity makes it both invaluable industrially and highly hazardous.

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