Halogens form diatomic molecules (of the form X₂​, where X denotes a halogen atom) in their elemental states. The bonds in these diatomic molecules are non-polar covalent single bonds. However, halogens readily combine with most elements and are never seen uncombined in nature. As a general rule, fluorine is the most reactive halogen and astatine is the least reactive. All halogens form Group 1 salts with similar properties. In these compounds, halogens are present as halide anions with charge of -1 (e.g. Cl^-, Br^-, etc.). Replacing the -ine ending with an -ide ending indicates the presence of halide anions; for example, Cl^- is named "chloride." In addition, halogens act as oxidizing agents—they exhibit the property to oxidize metals. Therefore, most of the chemical reactions that involve halogens are oxidation-reduction reactions in aqueous solution. The halogens often form single bonds, when in the -1 oxidation state, with carbon or nitrogen in organic compounds. When a halogen atom is substituted for a covalently-bonded hydrogen atom in an organic compound, the prefix halo- can be used in a general sense, or the prefixes fluoro-, chloro-, bromo-, or iodo- can be used for specific halogen substitutions. Halogen elements can cross-link to form diatomic molecules with polar covalent single bonds.