Concept in Definition ABC

Etymologically this term comes from the Greek bromos, which literally means bad smell or stench. Bromine is a chemical element, specifically a halogen belonging to group 7a of the periodic table. Its symbol is Br, its atomic number is 35, its atomic mass is 79.904 amu, its electronegativity is 2.98, and its oxidation levels are -1, 5, 3, and 1.

Bromine has a unique characteristic, since it is the only non-metallic element that occurs in liquid form when the temperature and the pressure is stable. From a chemical point of view it has properties similar to those of iodine and chlorine.

When it occurs at room temperature, it is a liquid with a dark red color and has a density three times that of water. For this reason it volatilizes with some ease and when this happens it produces a reddish vapor that can be toxic.

Discovery and uses

Bromine was discovered in 1826 when the French chemist and pharmacist Antoine-Jérome Balard was analyzing the crystallization of sea salt in some marshes near the French town of Montpellier.

It began to be used commercially from 1860. Initially it was used as a solvent or for the manufacturing from fuel. With the passage of time, it was no longer used for these purposes, as it was discovered that it was a very toxic element. It continues to be used as a purifying substance in the disinfection of swimming pools or in the elaboration of pharmaceutical products, but it must be used respecting certain measures of safety. Thus, if bromine comes into contact with potassium or phosphorus, deflagration is likely to take place.

In the form of ethylene bromide it is used in the preparation of dyes and when the bromide becomes bromide after an oxidation process it is used as an emulsifying substance in photography. Some bromides are also used to combat insect pests.

Effects on health and the environment

This strong-smelling liquid is very irritating. In this sense, it can cause skin damage and even cause serious burns. On the other hand, it can alter genetic material, cause stomach problems, or seriously damage vital organs.

If this element comes into contact with water, it can alter the ecosystem marine, especially fish and algae.

Organic bromides also have harmful effects on livestock.

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