Question

Why are the elements of group 17 called ‘halogens’?

Answer 1

1. Group 17 elements are called halogens because they produce salts.
2. The name halogen means salt producer (from Greek: halos = salts, genes = born).
3. Chlorine, bromine, and iodine form halide ions (Cl⁻, Br⁻, I⁻).
4. These halide ions combine with metals to form salts, commonly found in seawater.

Thus, halogens are salt-forming elements of group 17 in the periodic table.