Hydrogen Bromide

Hydrogen Bromide (CAS No: 10035-10-6) Supplier in Europe

Hydrogen bromide is a chemical compound composed of hydrogen and bromine. Known for its sharp, irritating odor, it is commonly used in various industrial applications.

When dissolved in water, it forms hydrobromic acid, an important reagent in numerous chemical reactions.

This compound plays a crucial role in the synthesis of inorganic and organic bromine compounds.

Its versatility makes it an essential component in pharmaceuticals, dyes, and other chemical products.

Understanding its properties and safe handling is vital for those working with it.

In research and industrial settings, hydrogen bromide is valued for its reactivity and effectiveness.

Safety precautions are necessary, as improper handling can lead to hazardous situations.

Proper knowledge and practices ensure its beneficial use across various sectors.

Chemical Properties

Hydrogen Bromide (HBr) exhibits a simple diatomic molecular structure, notable chemical reactivity, and a gaseous physical state under standard conditions.

Its molecular structure and high polarity contribute to its diverse reactivity in various chemical reactions.

Molecular Structure

Hydrogen Bromide consists of a hydrogen atom covalently bonded to a bromine atom, forming a linear diatomic molecule. The molecular formula is HBr.

Bromine is more electronegative than hydrogen, resulting in a polar covalent bond.

The bond length between hydrogen and bromine is approximately 141 pm.

This bond polarity makes the molecule susceptible to interactions with other polar substances and nucleophiles.

Chemical Reactivity

HBr is a strong acid, dissociating in water to release hydronium ions (H₃O⁺) and bromide ions (Br⁻).

It reacts vigorously with bases such as sodium hydroxide, forming water and sodium bromide.

It can participate as a reagent in addition reactions with alkenes, where it adds across the double bond.

As an acid, it can promote electrophilic aromatic substitution reactions with benzene derivatives.

Physical State at Standard Conditions

At standard temperature and pressure (STP), Hydrogen Bromide exists as a colorless gas.

It has a boiling point of -66.8°C, which is relatively low due to its simple molecular composition.

HBr is highly soluble in water, forming hydrobromic acid upon dissolution.

When dissolved, it releases a characteristic pungent smell and presents a corrosive nature to materials like metals and tissues.

Applications

Hydrogen bromide, a significant compound, finds its use in organic synthesis, catalytic reactions, and the pharmaceutical industry. These applications enhance its role in manufacturing and innovation.

Use in Synthesis

Hydrogen bromide plays a critical role in organic synthesis.

It is used for the bromination of alkenes and alkynes, adding bromine atoms effectively to organic molecules.

This reaction is fundamental in creating intermediates for a variety of applications.

Its ability to donate bromine makes it a valuable reagent in the production of dyes, perfumes, and pharmaceuticals.

This versatility in synthesis promotes its frequent use in chemical laboratories and industrial processes.

Hydrogen bromide, a strong acid, is also employed in halogenation reactions.

This is crucial in forming acyl bromides, enabling further chemical transformations.

Catalytic Roles

Hydrogen bromide is essential in catalytic roles within different reactions.

It is utilized in the dehydration of alcohols, a process important for the production of alkyl bromides.

This conversion is vital in creating many near-end products in chemical manufacturing.

The compound also acts as a catalyst in polymerization reactions.

Specifically, it is used in the production of certain plastics and synthetic rubber, contributing to their widespread application.

Its use facilitates efficient reaction rates and product purity, highlighting its importance in industrial applications.

Pharmaceutical Applications

In the pharmaceutical industry, hydrogen bromide serves a few specialized roles. It is employed in the synthesis of various active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs).

This usage supports the development of medications required for diverse therapeutic areas.

Importantly, hydrogen bromide is used in the preparation of some antibiotics and cough medications.

These applications are specific, playing a minor but noteworthy role in medicinal chemistry.

Its characteristics allow for modifications to drug molecules, enhancing their overall efficacy and bioavailability without challenging safety profiles significantly.