hydrobromic

Hydrobromic is an adjective used in chemistry to describe hydrogen bromide (HBr) or its aqueous solutions, hydrobromic acid. Hydrogen bromide is a diatomic molecule that forms hydrobromic acid when dissolved in water. In solution, hydrobromic acid is a strong Brønsted–Lowry acid, dissociating to hydronium and bromide ions.

Hydrobromic acid is a colorless, highly corrosive liquid or solution. In water, it behaves as a strong acid, with a very low pH and a tendency to donate protons to water to form Br− and H3O+. The gas HBr is also colorless and has a sharp, irritating odor; it is highly soluble in water.

Production and supply: Hydrobromic acid is produced industrially by reacting bromine with hydrogen gas at elevated temperature to form hydrogen bromide gas, which is then absorbed in water. An alternative laboratory route uses concentrated sulfuric acid to release HBr from bromide salts such as sodium bromide, with the gas subsequently dissolved in water to give the acid.

Reactions and uses: In organic synthesis, hydrobromic acid is used to convert alcohols to alkyl bromides and to catalyze hydrohalogenation of alkenes. It serves as a brominating reagent and as a strong acid in various reaction sequences. Concentrated HBr solutions are common reagents in laboratories and are handled with care due to corrosivity and fumes.

Safety and handling: Hydrobromic acid is highly corrosive and fumes can irritate the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract. It reacts with oxidizers and many metals to release flammable hydrogen gas. It should be stored in corrosion-resistant containers and used in a well-ventilated area with appropriate personal protective equipment.