Beyond Atomic Numbers - Every Element Has a Story
18.998
17
2
P Block
Halogen
Fluorine was isolated in 1886 by French chemist Henri Moissan after many scientists were injured attempting to obtain the element because of its extreme reactivity.
Fluorine is found naturally in minerals such as fluorite, cryolite and fluorapatite. It never occurs freely in nature because it reacts so readily.
Group 17 | Period 2 | P Block | Halogen
Fluorine compounds are used in toothpaste, refrigerants, pharmaceuticals, Teflon coatings and uranium processing.
Hydrogen, Carbon, Calcium and Sodium
Almost every other element can react vigorously with fluorine under suitable conditions.
Electronic Configuration: 1s² 2s² 2p⁵
Fluorine has the highest electronegativity of all elements and is one of the strongest oxidizing agents known.
Fluorine is so reactive that it can react with substances that are normally considered non-reactive, including glass and water.
Fluoride compounds help strengthen tooth enamel and reduce dental cavities. This is why small amounts of fluoride are often used in toothpaste.
Scientists use fluorine-containing compounds in advanced medicines, batteries, specialty plastics and high-performance materials.
Fluorine is relatively rare in the universe. It is believed to form inside certain types of stars and is distributed through stellar winds and supernova events.