Iodides are chemical compounds that include iodine in the -1 oxidation state, usually as the iodide ion (I-). They have important roles in a variety of sectors, including medicinal and industrial uses. Iodine exists in several forms in nature, although it is most commonly found as iodide in seawater, minerals, and some soils. The human body requires iodine to produce thyroid hormones, which control metabolism, growth, and development. Iodides are required for the thyroid gland to create thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which are important hormones that govern many physiological functions. Iodides have long been used to treat thyroid problems, such as goiter and hyperthyroidism. For example, potassium iodide is used to prepare patients for thyroidectomy (surgical removal of the thyroid gland) as well as to treat hyperactive thyroid disorders. In addition to its medical applications, iodides have a wide range of industrial uses. Silver iodide, which has a crystalline structure similar to that of ice, is used in cloud seeding, a procedure that involves seeding clouds with particles to induce precipitation. Furthermore, iodides have important use in organic synthesis, particularly in the pharmaceutical business. Iodination processes are used to incorporate iodine atoms into organic compounds, which typically changes their characteristics or increases their medicinal activity. For example, in medical chemistry, iodination can be used to change pharmacological molecules, enhancing their potency or changing their pharmacokinetic features. However, iodides can cause environmental problems. Excessive iodide discharge into water bodies, which is commonly caused by industrial activities or sewage, can have an influence on aquatic life. Elevated iodide levels may impair the thyroid function of aquatic creatures, disrupting their growth and reproduction. Finally, iodides are important molecules for human health because they play a role in thyroid hormone synthesis.Their uses include medical, industrial, and environmental studies. While their use in medicine is well established, cautious management of iodide-containing compounds is required to reduce potential environmental consequences. Understanding and applying the properties of iodides remains critical in a variety of scientific and practical sectors.
