The element with atomic number 35 has an interesting place in the periodic table. It is bromine, a halogen and a member of Group 17 on the periodic table. Bromine is a volatile, reddish-brown liquid that has a number of uses in industry and in everyday life. In this article, we will explore what bromine is, its properties and uses, and how it is produced.
What is Bromine and What Does it Look Like?
Bromine is a chemical element with an atomic number of 35 and is represented by the symbol Br. It is in the halogen family and is the third-heaviest halogen after chlorine and iodine. Its atomic weight is 79.9. Bromine is a reddish-brown liquid at room temperature and is the only halogen that exists in liquid form at room temperature. It has a strong, pungent odor and is soluble in both water and alcohol, but not in ether or kerosene. Bromine is slightly heavier than air and has a melting point of -7.2°C and a boiling point of 59.3°C.
Properties and Common Uses of Bromine
Bromine is a highly reactive element and is known for its ability to combine with other elements. Bromine is often used to make organic compounds such as brominated vegetable oil, flame retardants, and water treatment chemicals. It is also used in the production of pharmaceuticals, photographic chemicals, and dyes. It is also used in the production of brominated flame retardants, which are used in the production of flame-resistant plastics.
Bromine has a number of interesting properties. It has a higher boiling point than other halogens and is more soluble in water than other halogens. Bromine is also extremely corrosive and can react violently with many organic compounds.
Production of Bromine
Bromine is produced by the electrolytic oxidation of bromide salts. The most commonly used bromide salt is sodium bromide, which is found in natural brine deposits. The brine is first treated with chlorine gas to form hypobromous acid, which is then electrolysed to form bromine. Bromine is then isolated from the resulting solution.
Environmental Impact of Bromine Production
Bromine production can have a negative impact on the environment due to its corrosive nature and its ability to react violently with many other compounds. The production of bromine can lead to the release of brominated compounds into the environment, which can be toxic to plants, animals, and humans. Brominated compounds can also be harmful to the ozone layer.
Safety Precautions When Working With Bromine
Bromine is a highly reactive element and can be hazardous to human health and the environment. It is important to take safety precautions when working with bromine to minimize exposure. Workers should wear protective clothing, eye protection, and respirators when working with bromine. In addition, ventilation systems should be in place to minimize the inhalation of bromine fumes.
Conclusion
Bromine is an important element with a number of uses in industry and everyday life. It is a volatile, reddish-brown liquid that is highly reactive and can be hazardous to human health and the environment. It is important to take safety precautions when working with bromine to minimize exposure and reduce the risk of adverse health effects.
