Bromine Monoxide

Bromine monoxide (BrO) is a chemical compound consisting of one atom of bromine and one atom of oxygen. It is a reddish-brown gas at room temperature and pressure, with a strong odor resembling that of chlorine.

BrO is a highly reactive species that participates in atmospheric chemistry, particularly in the destruction of ozone. It is formed by the reaction of bromine atoms with molecular oxygen or ozone in the atmosphere. BrO also reacts with nitrogen oxides to form nitrogen dioxide and bromine nitrate.

In the laboratory, BrO can be prepared by reacting bromine with sodium hydroxide or by passing a mixture of bromine vapor and oxygen over heated mercury. It can be detected spectroscopically by its characteristic absorption band in the ultraviolet region.

BrO is an important tracer for studying atmospheric chemistry and air pollution. It is commonly measured using remote-sensing instruments such as spectrometers and lidars.