Bismuth(III) bromide facts for kids
Bismuth(III) bromide, also known as bismuth tribromide, is a special type of chemical compound. A chemical compound is a substance made when different chemicals join together. Its chemical formula is BiBr3. This formula is like a secret code that tells us it's made of bismuth and bromine atoms. These atoms are present as tiny charged particles called ions. In this compound, the bismuth atom is in a specific form, called its +3 oxidation state. This means it's ready to connect with three bromine atoms.
What is Bismuth(III) Bromide Like?
Bismuth(III) bromide is usually a solid. It can be white or a light yellow color.
When this compound touches water, it changes. It reacts with the water to create a new substance called bismuth oxybromide (BiOBr). This new substance is also a solid.
Bismuth(III) bromide does not easily mix with water. However, it can dissolve, or disappear, in acidic liquids. Think of acidic liquids like strong vinegar or lemon juice, but much stronger.
How is Bismuth(III) Bromide Made?
There are a couple of ways to make bismuth(III) bromide.
One common way is to mix bismuth(III) oxide with hydrobromic acid. When these two chemicals meet, they react and form bismuth(III) bromide.
Another way to create it is by combining powdered bismuth metal directly with bromine. Bromine is a chemical element that is often a reddish-brown liquid. When powdered bismuth and bromine are put together, they react to make bismuth(III) bromide.
Related Compounds
