Bromoiodomethane

Bromoiodomethane is a halomethane that is a member of the halocarbon family. It is a colorless liquid that is denser than water and has a sweet odor. Bromoiodomethane is used in various applications, including as a laboratory reagent and in organic synthesis.

Chemical Properties

Bromoiodomethane has the chemical formula CH2BrI. It is a halomethane, which means it contains one or more halogen atoms (in this case, bromine and iodine) and one or more carbon atoms. Bromoiodomethane is a dense, colorless liquid at room temperature, with a boiling point of 130-132 °C and a melting point of -50 °C. It is soluble in organic solvents but only slightly soluble in water.

Uses

Bromoiodomethane is primarily used as a laboratory reagent. It is also used in organic synthesis, where it can act as a nucleophile or a leaving group. In addition, bromoiodomethane can be used as a fumigant due to its ability to penetrate and kill pests.

Safety

Exposure to bromoiodomethane can cause irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract. It is also a potential carcinogen. Therefore, it is important to handle bromoiodomethane with care, using appropriate personal protective equipment and working in a well-ventilated area.

Environmental Impact

Bromoiodomethane is a potent greenhouse gas and can contribute to ozone depletion when released into the atmosphere. Therefore, its use and disposal must be managed carefully to minimize environmental impact.

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Chemical structure of bromoiodomethane

See Also

• Halomethane
• Halocarbon
• Organic synthesis
• Greenhouse gas
• Ozone depletion