Bromine: The Element

The chemical element bromine is a non-metallic substance. It belongs to the halogen group in the periodic table along with fluorine, chlorine and iodine. Chemically, it is represented by the symbol Br. On the Earth's surface, bromine is found in the form of various bromide salts. It is also present in the seawater from which it is extracted. In comparison to fluorine and chlorine, bromine is chemically less reactive but its reactivity is more than that of iodine. The compounds of bromine are referred to as bromides.

Properties of Bromine

The most unique property of bromine is that it is the only non-metallic element of the periodic table which is in a liquid form under ordinary conditions. Though, the liquid is found in quite a volatile state and it tends to form vapors very easily at standard room temperature. Liquid bromine is thick and is reddish-brown in color. When it vaporizes, the vapor formed is red in color with a pungent smell. Solubility of bromine is higher in carbon disulfide and organic solvents like methanol and acetic acid, and it is less soluble in water.

The atomic number of bromine is 35 and atomic weight is 79.90. The element bromine in its purest form is mostly found in diatomic molecular form or Br₂. Bromine acts as a strong oxidizing agent because it needs only one electron in its outermost shell to complete its octet. The element reacts readily with metals, particularly in the presence of water. It combines with various organic compounds in the presence of light.

Uses of Bromine

The element bromine possesses strong bleaching properties and is therefore used in swimming pools as a disinfectant. Bromine is also used for the manufacturing of fumigants, dyes, flameproof agents, water purification compounds and some medicines. Another usage of bromine is in the production of brominated vegetable oil which is an ingredient of some soft drinks. The compounds of bromine and inorganic metals also benefits us in many ways. Compounds like calcium bromide, sodium bromide and zinc bromide dissolve in water to give a thick solution which are used as drilling fluids to make boreholes into the Earth. Potassium bromide is used as photographic developers.

In industry, the element bromine is used in large scale for the preparation of a number of organobromine compounds which have several utilities and serve various purposes. One of the most important application of organobromine compounds is as a brominated flame retardant. These are brominated organic compounds which are capable of inhibiting fire on combustible organic substances. Dibromoethane is another such compound which is added to leaded gasoline. It helped in discarding lead present in gasoline from the engine. Presently, it is rarely used due to various environmental reasons.

Bromine does not play any significant role in the human body. However, there are several organobromine compounds that are present in our body. The element bromine is a toxic substance and gives a burning sensation when it comes in contact with the skin. Vapors of bromine are somewhat corrosive in nature and toxic too. Hence, it is essential that we take proper precautionary measures when we handle or transport bromine.