HBrO3

HBrO3, commonly called bromic acid, is an oxoacid of bromine with bromine in the +5 oxidation state. The compound corresponds to HO–BrO3 and is the conjugate acid of the bromate anion BrO3−; in aqueous solution it exists in equilibrium with BrO3− and hydronium ions.

Bromic acid is a strong oxidizing agent and, in acidic solution, readily oxidizes substrates while being reduced to lower bromine species such as Br−. In aqueous systems, it largely behaves as the acid form of the bromate moiety, contributing to bromate chemistry.

The acid is not typically isolated as a pure solid. It is usually encountered in solution or as part of bromate chemistry, and bromate salts such as sodium bromate are common derivatives. Bromic acid can be formed in situ by oxidizing bromide or bromine under strongly acidic conditions, but specific preparation methods depend on the system.

Safety and handling: Bromic acid is highly corrosive and a powerful oxidizer. It can cause severe irritation or chemical burns and should be handled with appropriate protective equipment and ventilation, away from reducing agents and organic materials.

See also: Bromate, Oxoacids of halogens, Bromine.