Antimony tribromide

Antimony Tribromide

Antimony tribromide is a chemical compound with the formula SbBr₃. It is a yellow crystalline solid that is used in various applications, including as a reagent in chemical synthesis and in the production of other antimony compounds.

Properties

Antimony tribromide is a yellow crystalline solid at room temperature. It has a melting point of 96.6 °C and a boiling point of 280 °C. The compound is soluble in hydrobromic acid and decomposes in water to form antimony trioxide and hydrobromic acid.

Structure

The structure of antimony tribromide is trigonal pyramidal. The central antimony atom is bonded to three bromine atoms. This geometry is typical for compounds of antimony in the +3 oxidation state.

Preparation

Antimony tribromide can be prepared by the direct reaction of antimony with bromine:

\[ \text{2 Sb} + \text{3 Br}_2 \rightarrow \text{2 SbBr}_3 \]

Alternatively, it can be prepared by the reaction of antimony trioxide with hydrobromic acid:

\[ \text{Sb}_2\text{O}_3 + \text{6 HBr} \rightarrow \text{2 SbBr}_3 + \text{3 H}_2\text{O} \]

Uses

Antimony tribromide is used as a catalyst in organic synthesis, particularly in the bromination of aromatic compounds. It is also used in the preparation of other antimony compounds and as a flame retardant in plastics and textiles.

Safety

Antimony tribromide is corrosive and can cause burns upon contact with skin. It is also toxic if ingested or inhaled. Proper safety precautions, including the use of gloves and eye protection, should be taken when handling this compound.

Also see

• Antimony trioxide
• Bromine
• Flame retardant
• Chemical synthesis