Atomic Properties

• Bromine is number 35 on the periodic table of elements. This is its atomic number, which corresponds to the number of protons found in each bromine atom. There are 47 bromine isotopes, or variations of the element, 29 of which are radioactive. Each isotope is marked by a different number of neutrons in each atom. There are also 16 bromine isomers, which vary in structural formation. Bromine's atomic weight is 79.904 and it has a density of 3.1.
  
  

Physical Properties

• Bromine is a nonmetallic element. It's the only one found as a liquid under normal conditions. In addition to having a brownish-red color, it also has a vapor of the same coloration. That vapor has a strong odor similar to chlorine. Bromine is a soluble element, able to be dissolved in water and organic solvents. When it reacts with water, bromine creates hydrobromic acid. In relation to other halogens, it is less reactive than chlorine, but more reactive than fluoride.
  
  

Uses

• Bromine is often used along with chlorine in chemical concentrations used to purify pool water. In a similar vein, it is used in industrial applications to prevent the growth of algae and bacteria in water sources. Bromine compounds are used in photographic emulsions to capture light. They are also used as pesticides and fumigants in the agricultural industry. It is also used to make fireproof agents and to make brominates vegetable oil, used as an emulsifier.
  
  

Warning

• Bromine is poisonous and can affect humans who drink water right after it is purified with a bromine agent, inhale bromine gas, eat bromine-contaminated food or come into skin contact with liquid or gas bromine. It works immediately by irritating skin, muscles and tissues. It can cause burns on the skin, coughs, breathing trouble, headaches, dizziness and similar effects depending on the type of contact someone has with it. Bromine should be washed off immediately after coming into contact with it and poisonings should be dealt with by poison-control professionals.