Bromomethane

From WikiMD.com Medical Encyclopedia


Natta projection of bromomethane

Bromomethane, also known as methyl bromide, is an organobromine compound with the chemical formula CH₃Br. It is a colorless, nonflammable gas with a slightly sweet odor, and it is used primarily as a fumigant for soil and agricultural products.

Chemical Properties[edit | edit source]

Bromomethane is a halomethane and is classified as a methyl halide. It is a simple alkyl halide, consisting of a methyl group (CH₃) bonded to a bromine atom. The compound is volatile and has a boiling point of 3.6 °C. It is slightly soluble in water but more soluble in organic solvents.

Molecular model of bromomethane

Production[edit | edit source]

Bromomethane is produced both naturally and synthetically. In nature, it is produced by marine organisms such as kelp, algae, and phytoplankton. Industrially, it is synthesized by the reaction of methanol with hydrogen bromide or by the reaction of methane with bromine in the presence of a catalyst.

Uses[edit | edit source]

Bromomethane is primarily used as a fumigant to control pests in agriculture. It is effective against a wide range of pests, including insects, nematodes, and weeds. It is also used in the quarantine and pre-shipment treatment of agricultural commodities.

Pallet of methyl bromide in China

Environmental Impact[edit | edit source]

Bromomethane is a significant ozone-depleting substance. Its use is regulated under the Montreal Protocol, which aims to phase out substances that deplete the ozone layer. As a result, its use has been significantly reduced, and alternatives are being sought.

Health Effects[edit | edit source]

Exposure to bromomethane can be harmful to human health. It can cause respiratory distress, neurological effects, and skin irritation. Safety measures are essential when handling this chemical to prevent exposure.

Methyl bromide fire extinguisher

Spectroscopy[edit | edit source]

Bromomethane can be analyzed using infrared spectroscopy, which provides information about its molecular vibrations and structure. The IR spectrum of bromomethane shows characteristic absorption bands that can be used to identify the compound.

Infrared spectroscopy of bromomethane

Related Pages[edit | edit source]

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD