Liquid Non-Metal At Room Temperature

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The non-metal that exists as a liquid at room temperature is bromine. This article will delve into the properties of bromine and why it is unique among non-metals. We'll break down its characteristics in a clear, easy-to-understand manner, just like a friendly tutor would!

Correct Answer

The non-metal that is liquid at room temperature is bromine.

Detailed Explanation

Hello there! You've asked a great question about the properties of non-metals. Let's explore why bromine is the only non-metal that is liquid at room temperature. We'll break down the concept and get you the answer you need, with explanations and key concepts to solidify your understanding.

What are Non-Metals?

First, let's clarify what we mean by non-metals. Non-metals are a group of elements that typically lack the characteristics of metals. They generally:

  • Are poor conductors of electricity and heat (unlike metals).
  • Have low melting and boiling points (compared to metals).
  • Tend to gain electrons in chemical reactions (metals tend to lose electrons).
  • Appear in various states at room temperature тАУ some are gases, some are solids, and, in the case of bromine, one is a liquid.

What is Room Temperature?

Room temperature is generally considered to be around 20-25 degrees Celsius (68-77 degrees Fahrenheit). This is the range in which we typically live and interact with the world.

Bromine: The Unique Non-Metal

Bromine (Br) is a halogen, a member of Group 17 (VIIA) of the periodic table. It is a reddish-brown liquid at room temperature, with a noticeable, pungent odor. This characteristic is very unusual, as the other non-metals are found in either solid (e.g., carbon, sulfur, phosphorus) or gaseous (e.g., oxygen, nitrogen, chlorine) states.

Properties of Bromine

Here's a closer look at bromine's key properties:

  • Appearance: Reddish-brown liquid. Bromine has a distinctive color and appearance.
  • Odor: Pungent and irritating smell. This odor is a key identifying feature of bromine.
  • State at Room Temperature: Liquid. This is the characteristic that makes it unique among non-metals.
  • Melting Point: -7.2 degrees Celsius (19 degrees Fahrenheit). Bromine freezes at a relatively low temperature.
  • Boiling Point: 58.8 degrees Celsius (137 degrees Fahrenheit). This means it turns into a gas at a relatively low temperature.
  • Density: 3.1028 g/cm┬│ at 20 ┬░C. This means it's denser than water.
  • Reactivity: Highly reactive. Bromine readily reacts with other elements and compounds.

Why is Bromine Liquid?

The intermolecular forces between bromine molecules are strong enough to hold them together as a liquid at room temperature. These are mainly van der Waals forces (specifically, London dispersion forces). The larger the molecule, the stronger the London dispersion forces. Bromine molecules are relatively large, and the strength of these forces is sufficient to overcome the kinetic energy of the molecules at room temperature, thus keeping them in a liquid state. It is a delicate balance between the attractive forces and the kinetic energy of the molecules.

Comparison with Other Halogens

Let's consider how bromine relates to the other halogens:

  • Fluorine (F) and Chlorine (Cl): These are gases at room temperature.
  • Iodine (I): Iodine is a solid at room temperature.
  • Astatine (At): Astatine is also a solid at room temperature, though it's radioactive and rare.

So, bromine stands out as the only liquid halogen at room temperature.

Uses of Bromine

Bromine and bromine compounds have various applications, including:

  • Flame retardants: Bromine compounds are used in flame retardants for plastics and textiles.
  • Chemical synthesis: Bromine is a crucial reagent in many chemical reactions.
  • Agriculture: Some bromine compounds are used as pesticides and fumigants.
  • Pharmaceuticals: Bromine is used in the synthesis of certain medicines.

Safety Precautions

Bromine is corrosive and toxic. It can cause burns on contact with skin and is harmful if inhaled. Always handle bromine with proper safety precautions in a well-ventilated area.

Key Concepts Recap

  • Non-metals: Elements that lack metallic properties (poor conductors, etc.).
  • Halogens: Group 17 elements (fluorine, chlorine, bromine, iodine, astatine).
  • Room Temperature: Around 20-25 degrees Celsius.
  • Intermolecular Forces: Forces of attraction between molecules.
  • Van der Waals forces: Weak forces that hold molecules together.

Key Takeaways

  • Bromine is the only non-metal that is a liquid at room temperature.
  • It's a halogen (Group 17 element).
  • Bromine is reddish-brown with a pungent odor.
  • The liquid state is due to the strength of the intermolecular forces.
  • Bromine is used in various applications, including flame retardants and chemical synthesis.
  • Handle bromine with care because it is toxic and corrosive.