Sodium bromate facts for kids
Sodium bromate is a special chemical substance. Its chemical formula is NaBrO3. This formula tells us that each tiny piece (called a molecule) of sodium bromate contains one atom of sodium and one ion (a charged atom or group of atoms) of bromate.
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What is Sodium Bromate Like?
Sodium bromate is a solid that has no color, so it looks white or clear. It is also a very strong oxidizing agent. This means it's a powerful chemical that can make other substances react by taking electrons from them. Think of it as a chemical "helper" that causes changes in other materials.
How is Sodium Bromate Made?
Scientists can create sodium bromate in a few different ways.
Mixing Chemicals
One common way to make sodium bromate is by mixing two other chemicals together: sodium hydroxide and bromic acid. When these two chemicals meet, they react to form sodium bromate.
Using Electricity
Another method involves using electricity. This process is called electrolysis. Scientists can pass an electric current through a liquid mixture (a solution) of sodium bromide. This electrical energy helps to change the sodium bromide into sodium bromate.
Dissolving Bromine
You can also make sodium bromate by dissolving a chemical called bromine in a hot solution of sodium hydroxide. When bromine dissolves in the hot sodium hydroxide, it creates sodium bromate, and another substance called sodium bromide is also formed.
What is Sodium Bromate Used For?
Sodium bromate has several interesting uses in different areas.
Hair Dyeing
One of its main uses is in the beauty industry. Sodium bromate is often used in products that help to dye or color hair. It helps to set the color and make it last longer.
Other Dyes
Beyond hair, sodium bromate is also used to dye other materials and fabrics, helping to give them new colors.
Dissolving Gold
Interestingly, sodium bromate can also be used to dissolve gold. This property makes it useful in certain industrial processes, especially when working with precious metals.
Related Chemicals
