Fluorinating block metal fluorides

Most metals combine directly with all of the halogens (X2) and react particularly readily with fluorine. Many nonmetals also react. The reactivity of fluorine is so great that almost all of these reactions can be initiated at ordinary temperatures and will proceed with the evolution of considerable heat and light until the fluorine has been completely consumed. Some metals, such as aluminum, nickel, iron, and copper, form protective fluoride coatings that block further reaction unless the temperature is raised. 

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