Gold tribromide

Gold tribromide, also known as auric tribromide, is a chemical compound with the formula AuBr₃. It is one of the few stable bromine compounds of gold, and exhibits properties typical of other gold halides.

Properties

Gold tribromide is a dark-red crystalline solid at room temperature. It is highly reactive and decomposes upon exposure to light or moisture. This compound is soluble in water, where it hydrolyzes to form hydrobromic acid and gold compounds. It is also soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol and acetone.

Synthesis

Gold tribromide can be synthesized by reacting elemental gold with bromine. The reaction typically involves heating gold in the presence of bromine gas: \[ \text{2 Au} + \text{3 Br}_2 \rightarrow \text{2 AuBr}_3 \]

Chemical Reactions

Gold tribromide is a strong oxidizing agent and can react with many organic and inorganic substances. It is used in organic synthesis for the bromination of certain organic compounds. Additionally, it can react with more gold to form lower bromides such as gold(I) bromide (AuBr).

Applications

Due to its strong oxidative properties, gold tribromide is used in chemical synthesis and materials science. It is particularly useful in the preparation of gold-based catalysts and in the bromination of organic compounds in synthetic chemistry.

Safety and Handling

Gold tribromide is a hazardous material. It is corrosive and can cause severe burns upon contact with skin or eyes. It is also a powerful oxidizer, which can enhance the combustion of other materials. Proper safety equipment such as gloves, goggles, and protective clothing should be worn when handling this chemical.

See Also

• Gold
• Gold(I) bromide
• Bromine
• Halogen