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Aluminium Bromide

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Identification
Molecular formula

AlBr3 and Al2Br6

CAS number
7727-15-3
State
State

solid

Melting point (Celsius)
97.80
Melting point (Kelvin)
371.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
265.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
538.00
General information
Molar mass
266.6900g/mol
Density
3.2050g/cm3
Appearence

white to pale yellow crystalline solid

Comment on solubility

Solubility of AlBr3 and Al2Br6

When considering the solubility of aluminum bromides such as AlBr3 and Al2Br6, it is essential to recognize their distinctive properties:

  • AlBr3: This compound is generally soluble in polar solvents, particularly water, due to its ionic character. However, its solubility can be affected by factors such as temperature and concentration.
  • Al2Br6: In contrast, Al2Br6 is known to have reduced solubility in water, as it tends to form complexes that are less soluble compared to its monomeric form.

In summary, while AlBr3 exhibits robust solubility in polar solvents, Al2Br6 shows limited solubility traits. Factors influencing their solubility include:

  1. Temperature: Higher temperatures can enhance the solubility of many ionic compounds.
  2. Concentration: Dilution in solution may lead to increased solubility for certain species.
  3. Solvent type: The choice of solvent plays a significant role; polar solvents generally favor ionic solubility.

In conclusion, understanding the solubility of these aluminum bromides is crucial for their application in various chemical processes. As a general guideline, remember: solubility is not a fixed property and can vary significantly based on several key factors!

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Aluminum Bromide

Aluminum bromide is a fascinating compound that serves as a key player in various chemical reactions and has intriguing properties that are its own. Here are some interesting aspects of this compound:

  • Two Forms: Aluminum bromide can exist in two distinct stoichiometric forms: AlBr3 and Al2Br6. The former is found in its anhydrous state under specific conditions, while the latter tends to occur in a dimeric structure at room temperature.
  • Lewis Acid: As a potent Lewis acid, aluminum bromide is known for its ability to accept electron pairs, making it especially useful in organic synthesis, including Friedel-Crafts reactions. This characteristic makes it essential for forming carbon-carbon bonds.
  • Complex Formation: This compound can form various complexes with organic substrates, which can be a gateway to creating a multitude of organic compounds. Its reactivity opens doors to innovative synthetic pathways.
  • Role in Catalysis: Aluminum bromide is crucial in numerous catalytic processes. It acts as a catalyst in reactions involving alkylation and acylation due to its strong electrophilic nature.
  • Synthesis: The synthesis of aluminum bromide typically involves the direct combination of aluminum and bromine, a reaction that is both exothermic and fascinating to observe.
  • Applications: Beyond organic synthesis, aluminum bromide finds applications in the pharmaceutical industry, serving as a reagent in the production of various active compounds.

In conclusion, aluminum bromide is not just an ordinary chemical compound; it plays a pivotal role in the chemistry world. Its dual forms, strong Lewis acid properties, and utility in complex formation make it an intriguing subject for researchers and chemists alike. As stated by some chemists, "Understanding the nuances of aluminum bromide opens new avenues in synthetic chemistry."