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