Final answer:
Halogens are used in light bulbs, particularly halogen bulbs, where they help prolong the bulb's life and maintain brightness. They are not used as electrical or thermal conductors. Halogens have a variety of other uses, including in the production of plastics and cookware.
Step-by-step explanation:
One use for halogens is in light bulbs, specifically halogen light bulbs. Halogens such as iodine or bromine react with tungsten vapor inside the bulb and redeposit the tungsten back onto the filament. This creates a cycle that prolongs the life of the bulb and maintains its brightness. Halogens are not typically used as electrical conductors or thermal conductors, as those applications generally rely on metals thanks to their ample free electrons which allow them to conduct electrical current and thermal energy effectively.
Furthermore, halogens are part of Group 17 in the periodic table, which includes fluorine, chlorine, bromine, iodine, and astatine. These elements are known for forming salts when they react with metals, such as sodium chloride. Their reactivity and unique properties mean halogens have a variety of applications beyond lighting, including in the production of glass-reinforced plastics and cookware.