Cobalt(II) bromide

Chemical compound

Cobalt(II) bromide is a chemical compound with the formula CoBr2. It is a red crystalline solid that is soluble in water. Cobalt(II) bromide is used in various applications, including as a catalyst in organic synthesis and in the preparation of other cobalt compounds.

Structure and Properties

Cobalt(II) bromide crystallizes in a cadmium chloride motif, which is a common structure for many metal halides. The compound exhibits a layered structure where cobalt ions are octahedrally coordinated by bromide ions.

Preparation

Cobalt(II) bromide can be prepared by the direct reaction of cobalt metal with bromine:

<math>\text{Co} + \text{Br}_2 \rightarrow \text{CoBr}_2</math>

Alternatively, it can be synthesized by the reaction of cobalt(II) oxide or cobalt(II) carbonate with hydrobromic acid:

<math>\text{CoO} + 2\text{HBr} \rightarrow \text{CoBr}_2 + \text{H}_2\text{O}</math>

Applications

Cobalt(II) bromide is used as a catalyst in organic reactions, particularly in the Grignard reaction where it can facilitate the formation of carbon-carbon bonds. It is also used in the synthesis of other cobalt-containing compounds and materials.

Safety

Cobalt(II) bromide is considered hazardous, and appropriate safety measures should be taken when handling the compound. It can cause skin and eye irritation, and prolonged exposure may have more serious health effects. It is important to use personal protective equipment and work in a well-ventilated area when handling this chemical.

See also

• Cobalt(II) chloride
• Cobalt(II) iodide
• Cobalt compounds

External links

• Cobalt(II) bromide on PubChem