Bromoform

Chemical compound

Chemical Compound
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Bromoform is a chemical compound with the formula CHBr₃. It is one of the four haloforms, the others being chloroform, iodoform, and fluoroform. Bromoform is a colorless liquid at room temperature, although it is often found with a yellowish tint due to impurities. It has a sweet odor and is denser than water.

Structure and Properties

Bromoform molecule

Bromoform is a trihalomethane, consisting of a central carbon atom bonded to one hydrogen atom and three bromine atoms. The molecule is tetrahedral in shape, similar to other haloforms. Bromoform is slightly soluble in water but more soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol and acetone.

Physical Properties

Bromoform has a high density of 2.89 g/cm³, making it one of the densest organic liquids. It has a boiling point of 149.5 °C and a melting point of 8.3 °C. The compound is non-flammable but can decompose upon heating to produce toxic gases such as hydrogen bromide.

Chemical Properties

Bromoform is relatively stable but can undergo photochemical reactions in the presence of light. It can also react with strong bases to form dibromocarbene, a reactive intermediate used in organic synthesis.

Production

Bromoform is produced industrially by the haloform reaction, where acetone or ethanol is reacted with sodium hypobromite. This process involves the halogenation of the methyl group followed by the cleavage of the carbon-carbon bond.

Uses

Bromoform has limited commercial applications. It is used as a laboratory reagent and as a solvent for waxes, greases, and oils. Historically, it was used as a sedative and antitussive, but these uses have been discontinued due to safety concerns.

Environmental and Health Effects

Bromoform in a bottle

Bromoform is a potential environmental pollutant and is classified as a volatile organic compound (VOC). It can be released into the environment through industrial discharges and the chlorination of drinking water. Bromoform is toxic to aquatic life and can contribute to the formation of ozone in the atmosphere.

Health Effects

Exposure to bromoform can occur through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact. It can cause irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract. Prolonged exposure may affect the liver and kidneys. Bromoform is considered a possible human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).

Safety

Due to its potential health risks, bromoform should be handled with care. Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and goggles should be used when handling the compound. It should be stored in a cool, well-ventilated area away from incompatible substances.

Related Pages

• Chloroform
• Iodoform
• Haloform reaction
• Volatile organic compound