Fluorine is a chemical element with symbol F and
atomic number 9. It was discovered by Henri Moissan in 1886 ; the name is
derived from the latin “ fluere “ , meaning to flow . The fluorine melting
point is -219 º C and his boiling point -188 º C . Fluorine has 18 known
isotopes from 14 to 31, only one of these isotopes is stable, that is,
fluorine-19
Appearance and properties
A very pale yellow-green, dangerously reactive gas. It
is the most reactive of all the elements and quickly attacks all metals.
Uses
There was no commercial production of fluorine until
the Second World War, when the development of the atomic bomb, and other nuclear
energy projects, made it necessary to produce large quantities. Before this,
fluorine salts, known as fluorides, were for a long time used in welding and
for frosting glass.
The element is used to make uranium hexafluoride,
needed by the nuclear power industry .
Biological role
Fluoride is an essential ion for animals,
strengthening teeth and bones. The average human body contains about 3
milligrams of fluoride. Too much fluoride is toxic. Elemental fluorine is
highly toxic.
