Alkyl halides:

The haloalkanes (also termed as halogenoalkanes or alkyl halides) are a group of chemical compounds that are derived from alkanes consisting of one or more halogens. They are a subset of the common class of halocarbons, even though the distinction is not frequently made. Haloalkanes are extensively used commercially and, accordingly, are known under various chemical and commercial names. They are employed as propellants, solvents, flame retardants, fire extinguishants, refrigerants, and pharmaceuticals.

Consequent to the widespread use in commerce, several halocarbons have also been displayed to be serious pollutants and toxins. For instance, the chlorofluorocarbons have been displayed to guide to ozone depletion. Methyl bromide is a controversial fumigant. Just only haloalkanes that contain chlorine, bromine, and iodine are a danger to the ozone layer, however fluorinated volatile haloalkanes theoretically might have activity like greenhouse gases. Methyl iodide, a naturally taking place substance, though, does not have ozone-depleting properties and the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) has designated the compound a non-ozone layer depleter.