Halogenated Hydrocarbon Definition

This is the chemical structure of chloromethane, or methylchloride.
This is the chemical structure of the halogenated hydrocarbon chloromethane. Yikrazuul/PD

A halogenated hydrocarbon is a hydrocarbon that contains one or more halogen atoms. The chemical compound is also known as a halocarbon.

Examples

Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are halogenated hydrocarbons that are used as refrigerants, but lead to ozone depletion. Methyl bromide is used as a fumigant. Chloroethane is used as a solvent.

Uses

Halocarbons are used as refrigerants, pharmaceuticals, solvents, flame retardants and extinguishers, and propellants. Sometimes they are used for their toxic properties.

Sources

  • Butler, Alison; Catter-Facklin, Jayen M. (2004). "The role of vanadium bromoperoxidase in the biosynthesis of halogenated marine natural products." Natural Product Reports. 21 (1): 180–188. doi:10.1039/b302337k.
  • Gribble, Gordon W. (1998). "Naturally Occurring Organohalogen Compounds." Acc. Chem. Res. 31 (3): 141–152. doi:10.1021/ar9701777
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Helmenstine, Anne Marie, Ph.D. "Halogenated Hydrocarbon Definition." ThoughtCo, Feb. 16, 2021, thoughtco.com/definition-of-halogenated-hydrocarbon-605178. Helmenstine, Anne Marie, Ph.D. (2021, February 16). Halogenated Hydrocarbon Definition. Retrieved from https://www.thoughtco.com/definition-of-halogenated-hydrocarbon-605178 Helmenstine, Anne Marie, Ph.D. "Halogenated Hydrocarbon Definition." ThoughtCo. https://www.thoughtco.com/definition-of-halogenated-hydrocarbon-605178 (accessed March 29, 2024).