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.

Chemical structure of bromoiodomethane

See Also

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