50 Facts About Carbon Tetrabromide

What is Carbon Tetrabromide?

Carbon tetrabromide, also known as tetrabromomethane, is a chemical compound with the formula CBr₄. This colorless solid is used in various applications, from organic synthesis to fire extinguishers. Let's dive into some intriguing facts about this compound.

1. Carbon tetrabromide has a molecular weight of 331.63 g/mol.
2. It appears as a colorless crystalline solid at room temperature.
3. The compound has a high density of 3.42 g/cm³.
4. It melts at 91.5°C and boils at 189°C.
5. CBr₄ is slightly soluble in water but highly soluble in organic solvents like ethanol and benzene.

Chemical Properties of Carbon Tetrabromide

Understanding the chemical properties of carbon tetrabromide helps in grasping its reactivity and uses in various fields.

6. Carbon tetrabromide is a non-polar molecule due to its symmetrical tetrahedral structure.
7. It is relatively stable but can decompose when exposed to high temperatures.
8. The compound is used as a brominating agent in organic synthesis.
9. It can react with metals to form metal bromides.
10. CBr₄ can also undergo photolysis, breaking down into carbon and bromine under UV light.

Uses of Carbon Tetrabromide

Carbon tetrabromide has a range of applications, making it a versatile compound in both industrial and laboratory settings.

11. It is used as a solvent for greases, waxes, and oils.
12. The compound serves as a fire retardant in plastics and other materials.
13. It is employed in the production of other brominated compounds.
14. CBr₄ is used in the preparation of certain pharmaceuticals.
15. It acts as a reagent in organic chemistry for bromination reactions.

Safety and Environmental Impact

While useful, carbon tetrabromide must be handled with care due to its potential hazards.

16. CBr₄ is toxic if ingested or inhaled.
17. It can cause skin and eye irritation upon contact.
18. Prolonged exposure may lead to liver and kidney damage.
19. The compound is harmful to aquatic life, necessitating careful disposal.
20. It is classified as a hazardous substance under various environmental regulations.

Historical Context and Discovery

The history of carbon tetrabromide dates back to the 19th century, reflecting its longstanding significance in chemistry.

21. Carbon tetrabromide was first synthesized in the mid-1800s.
22. Early chemists used it to study the properties of halogenated compounds.
23. Its discovery contributed to the understanding of carbon-halogen bonds.
24. The compound played a role in the development of early fire extinguishing methods.
25. Historical uses included its application in early photography processes.

Physical Properties and Appearance

The physical characteristics of carbon tetrabromide make it easily identifiable and useful in various applications.

26. It has a refractive index of 1.64, indicating how it bends light.
27. The compound is odorless, making it less detectable by smell.
28. It has a specific heat capacity of 0.21 J/g·K.
29. CBr₄ exhibits a crystalline structure, often forming cubic crystals.
30. Its vapor pressure is relatively low at room temperature.

Industrial and Laboratory Applications

Carbon tetrabromide's versatility extends to numerous industrial and laboratory uses.

31. It is used in the synthesis of flame retardants.
32. The compound is a key ingredient in certain types of fire extinguishers.
33. It serves as a calibration standard in nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy.
34. CBr₄ is used in the production of semiconductors.
35. It acts as a density gradient medium in centrifugation processes.

Interesting Facts and Trivia

Beyond its scientific and industrial significance, carbon tetrabromide has some fascinating trivia associated with it.

36. It is one of the few compounds that can exist in a supercooled liquid state.
37. The compound was once used in early refrigeration systems.
38. It has been studied for potential use in carbon capture technologies.
39. CBr₄ can form clathrate compounds, trapping other molecules within its structure.
40. It has been used in the study of molecular vibrations and infrared spectroscopy.

Environmental and Health Regulations

Due to its potential hazards, carbon tetrabromide is subject to various regulations to ensure safe handling and disposal.

41. It is listed under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) in the United States.
42. The compound is regulated by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA).
43. Safety data sheets (SDS) provide guidelines for its safe use.
44. It is subject to reporting requirements under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA).
45. Proper personal protective equipment (PPE) is recommended when handling CBr₄.

Future Prospects and Research

Ongoing research continues to explore new applications and safer handling methods for carbon tetrabromide.

46. Scientists are investigating its use in advanced materials science.
47. Research is being conducted on its potential role in organic solar cells.
48. Efforts are underway to develop more environmentally friendly brominating agents.
49. Studies are exploring its use in nanotechnology and molecular engineering.
50. Future advancements may lead to safer and more efficient uses of carbon tetrabromide.

Carbon Tetrabromide: The Final Word

Carbon tetrabromide, a fascinating compound, has a lot more to it than meets the eye. From its chemical structure to its industrial applications, this compound plays a crucial role in various fields. Its unique properties make it valuable in organic synthesis and fire extinguishing systems. Despite its usefulness, handling it with care is essential due to its toxicity and environmental impact.

Understanding the facts about carbon tetrabromide helps appreciate its significance and the precautions needed when using it. Whether you're a student, scientist, or just curious, knowing these details can be quite enlightening. Keep exploring and stay curious about the world of chemistry. There's always something new to learn and discover.