Brüm

Bróm, known in English as bromine, is the chemical element with the symbol Br and atomic number 35. It is a halogen and the only nonmetal that is a liquid at room temperature, appearing as a reddish-brown, highly corrosive liquid with a distinctive sharp odor. It is the third-lightest halogen and forms a wide range of bromide compounds.

At 25°C, bromine has a melting point of −7.2°C and a boiling point of 58.8°C. It is dense and very reactive, readily forming compounds with metals and nonmetals. In salts, bromine commonly exists as bromide ions (Br−). Free bromine is not common in nature and is typically obtained for industrial use from brine sources.

Occurrence and production are dominated by extraction from seawater and brine deposits. Bromine is produced commercially by oxidizing bromide ions in brine to release Br2, which is then purified and condensed. The majority of industrial bromine comes from brine pools and mineral deposits containing bromide-bearing minerals.

Uses are diverse: bromine and many of its compounds are employed in flame retardants, dyes, pharmaceuticals, and organic synthesis. Brominated flame retardants are widely used in textiles and plastics, though some have raised environmental and health concerns. Historically, bromine compounds were used in photography and as sedatives; methyl bromide was used as a fumigant but is being phased out due to ozone depletion and safety concerns.

Safety and environmental aspects are important: bromine is toxic, highly corrosive, and can irritate skin, eyes, and the respiratory tract. Brominated compounds can be persistent and bioaccumulative, requiring careful handling and regulation to limit environmental impact.

History and etymology: bromine was discovered in 1826 by Balard in Paris from seawater. The name derives from the Greek bromos, meaning stench or odor, reflecting its acrid smell.