Which of the following interhalogen compound does not exist?

The correct answer is Option (3) → BrF₂

Interhalogen compounds are of the types XX′, XX′₃, XX′₅ and XX′₇: the larger halogen X uses 1, 3, 5 or 7 of its electrons to bond with the smaller halogen X′. A formula XX′₂ would leave an odd number of electrons on X, so BrF₂ does not exist.

• Option (1) BrF — Exists. Type XX′, a pale brown gas.

• Option (2) BrF₃ — Exists. Type XX′₃, a yellow green liquid.

• Option (3) BrF₂ — Does not exist. XX′₂ would leave an odd electron on bromine.

• Option (4) BrF₅ — Exists. Type XX′₅, a colourless liquid.

Note: This question is from the pre-rationalised NCERT book (2022-23). The topic is not there in the latest NCERT book (2026-27), and it is also out of the CUET 2026 syllabus.

NCERT (Pre-rationalised edition, 2022-23):
Interhalogen Compounds – …