bromides

Bromides refer to chemical compounds that contain the bromide ion (Br−), the conjugate base of hydrobromic acid. The most common bromide salts are inorganic examples such as sodium bromide (NaBr), potassium bromide (KBr), and ammonium bromide (NH4Br). In water, bromide behaves as a soluble, relatively unreactive anion but can be oxidized to elemental bromine by strong oxidants. Bromides are typically white to colorless crystals and are generally soluble in water.

Bromides occur naturally in seawater and brines, where they are present in trace to moderate concentrations. They are produced industrially from elemental bromine or from bromide-containing minerals. In industry, bromides have multiple roles: they are used in the photography industry as components of light-sensitive emulsions such as silver bromide; in medicine and veterinary contexts they have been used as sedatives and anticonvulsants (historically); and in organic synthesis, they serve as sources of bromine for forming alkyl bromides and for various substitution reactions. Bromide salts also appear in drilling fluids, flame retardants, and water treatment formulations.

Safety and environmental aspects: bromide salts are of relatively low acute toxicity, but high levels can lead to bromism, a condition with neurological and gastrointestinal symptoms. Chronic exposure and high concentrations can irritate skin, eyes, and the respiratory tract. In the environment, excessive bromide release can participate in the formation of brominated organic compounds, prompting regulatory and waste-disposal considerations. Proper handling and disposal of bromide-containing materials follow standard hazardous-waste guidelines.