Liquid bromine (Br2) is a dark red-brown,
highly reactive, and toxic liquid at room temperature and pressure. Here are
some details about liquid bromine:
1. Chemical Formula: Br2
2. CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) Number:
7726-95-6
3. Molecular Weight: Approximately 159.808
g/mol
4. Physical Properties:
-
Appearance: Liquid bromine is a dark red-brown liquid with a strong, unpleasant
odor.
-
Boiling Point: Liquid bromine has a boiling point of 58.8°C (137.8°F) at
standard atmospheric pressure.
-
Melting Point: It solidifies at -7.2°C (19°F) to form reddish-brown crystals.
-
Density: The density of liquid bromine is approximately 3.1028 g/cm³ at 25°C
(77°F).
-
Solubility: Liquid bromine is sparingly soluble in water, with a solubility of
about 3.41 g/L at 25°C (77°F).
-
Vapor Pressure: The vapor pressure of liquid bromine at its boiling point is
approximately 102 mmHg.
5. Chemical Properties:
-
Liquid bromine is a strong oxidizing agent and reacts vigorously with reducing
agents, organic compounds, and certain metals.
- It
can undergo various chemical reactions, including halogenation, substitution,
and addition reactions.
-
Bromine forms acids such as hydrobromic acid (HBr) and hypobromous acid (HOBr)
when dissolved in water.
6. Production:
-
Bromine is primarily produced as a byproduct of the extraction of bromide ions
from seawater or brine wells.
- It
can also be produced through other methods, such as the oxidation of hydrogen
bromide or the reaction of bromide salts with chlorine.
7. Uses:
-
Flame Retardants: Liquid bromine and bromine-containing compounds are used as
flame retardants in various applications, including electronics, textiles, and
construction materials.
-
Water Treatment: Bromine is used as a disinfectant in swimming pools, spas, and
water treatment systems to kill bacteria, viruses, and algae.
-
Pharmaceuticals: Bromine compounds are used in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals
and organic chemicals.
-
Organic Synthesis: Bromine is used as a reagent in organic synthesis reactions,
including the preparation of bromoalkanes and bromoaromatic compounds.
8. Health and Safety:
-
Liquid bromine is highly toxic and corrosive and can cause severe irritation,
burns, and tissue damage upon contact or inhalation.
-
Exposure to liquid bromine vapor or mist can lead to respiratory distress,
coughing, chest tightness, and pulmonary edema (fluid accumulation in the
lungs).
-
Proper handling, storage, and ventilation are essential when working with
liquid bromine to minimize the risk of exposure and accidents.
-
Personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, goggles, and respiratory
protection, should be worn by workers handling liquid bromine.
Liquid bromine is a valuable chemical with various industrial applications, particularly in flame retardants, water treatment, and organic synthesis. However, its toxicity and hazardous nature require careful handling and safety precautions to ensure safe usage and minimize risks to human health and the environment.
If you need further information or have specific questions, feel free to ask!