Chromium(III) bromide

Chromium(III) Bromide

Chromium(III) bromide is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula CrBr₃. It is one of the several chromium bromides and is a dark green crystalline solid. Chromium(III) bromide is primarily used in research and has applications in the synthesis of other chromium compounds.

Structure and Properties

Chromium(III) bromide crystallizes in a layered structure similar to that of aluminum chloride. Each chromium atom is surrounded by six bromine atoms, forming an octahedral geometry. The layers are held together by van der Waals forces, which makes the compound relatively easy to cleave.

The compound is paramagnetic due to the presence of unpaired electrons in the chromium(III) ion, which has a d³ electronic configuration. This property is of interest in the study of magnetic materials.

Synthesis

Chromium(III) bromide can be synthesized by the direct reaction of elemental chromium with bromine gas:

<math>2 \text{Cr} + 3 \text{Br}_2 \rightarrow 2 \text{CrBr}_3</math>

Alternatively, it can be prepared by the reaction of chromium(III) oxide with hydrobromic acid:

<math>\text{Cr}_2\text{O}_3 + 6 \text{HBr} \rightarrow 2 \text{CrBr}_3 + 3 \text{H}_2\text{O}</math>

Applications

While chromium(III) bromide itself does not have widespread industrial applications, it is used in the laboratory for the synthesis of other chromium compounds. It serves as a precursor to other chromium(III) complexes and is used in studies of magnetic and electronic properties of materials.

Safety and Handling

Chromium(III) bromide should be handled with care, as with all chemical compounds. It is important to avoid inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact. Proper personal protective equipment, such as gloves and goggles, should be used when handling the compound.

Also see

• Chromium(III) chloride
• Chromium(III) oxide
• Bromine
• Inorganic chemistry