10.2 - Chemical reactions of Halogens

• Halogens are good oxidising agents as they accept electrons from the element being oxidised or reduced 
• Oxidising power decreases down the group as their ability to attract electrons decreases due to shielding and a greater atomic radius

  
• The relative oxidising strengths mean a halogen will displace any halide beneath it

  E.g. Cl2 will displace Br- and I ions
• As a result of its small size and high electronegativity Fluroine can bring out the highest oxidation states

  
• Displacement reactions is where the compound will be displaced by a more reactive halogen