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Bromine Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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bromine

[หˆbroสŠmiหn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

chemical element

Bromine is a chemical element with the symbol Br and atomic number 35. It is a reddish-brown liquid at room temperature and has a distinctive, sharp, and irritating odor similar to chlorine. As a halogen, bromine is found in group 17 of the periodic table. It is used in various applications including the manufacture of flame retardants, photographic chemicals, and water purification products.

Synonyms

Br, halogen.

Examples of usage

  • Bromine is commonly used in the production of flame retardants.
  • The bromine concentration in the pool needs to be monitored regularly.
  • Bromine compounds are often used in agriculture as pesticides.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Applications

  • Bromine is commonly used in flame retardants, which help to prevent fires in materials.
  • It plays an important role in the production of certain pharmaceuticals, especially for treating skin conditions.
  • In chemistry, it's used in the synthesis of various organic compounds and as a disinfectant in swimming pools.

Environmental Impact

  • While bromine compounds are useful, they can also be harmful to the environment, especially in aquatic ecosystems.
  • Some brominated compounds have been studied due to their role as persistent organic pollutants.
  • Efforts are ongoing to find safer alternatives to bromine in some applications to protect the environment.

Safety and Handling

  • Bromine is corrosive and can cause burns, so it must be handled with caution in a laboratory or industrial settings.
  • Exposure to bromine vapors can irritate the eyes, skin, and respiratory system, requiring protective gear while using it.
  • Due to its toxic nature, bromine is carefully regulated in many countries to ensure safe use.

Cultural References

  • Bromine has appeared in various works of literature and art, often associated with technological advancement and scientific discovery.
  • In popular culture, bromine's ability to act as a disinfectant makes it a symbol in discussions about cleanliness and health.
  • It has inspired the naming of several products in science and health industries to reflect its beneficial uses.

Origin of 'bromine'

Main points about word origin

  • The name 'bromine' comes from the Greek word 'bromos,' meaning stench, because of its strong and unpleasant smell.
  • It was first identified in 1826 by a French chemist named Antoine Jรฉrรดme Balard.
  • Bromine is one of the only two nonmetallic elements that are liquids at room temperature, the other being mercury.

The word 'bromine' is derived from the Greek word 'bromos', which means 'stench' or 'bad smell'. This name was chosen due to the strong, unpleasant odor of bromine gas. The element was discovered in 1826 by the French chemist Antoine Jรฉrรดme Balard. He isolated it from the ashes of seaweed and noticed its distinct smell. The initial extraction and identification of bromine marked an important advancement in the study of halogens, a group of elements known for their high reactivity. Since its discovery, bromine has been utilized in various industries ranging from agriculture to electronics. Its diverse applications demonstrate the significance of this chemical element in both commercial and scientific fields.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,036, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.