What is the Difference Between Bromine and Iodine?

Bromine and iodine are both halogens found in group 17 of the periodic table of elements. They share some similarities, but there are key differences between them:

  • Physical State: Bromine is a liquid at room temperature, while iodine is a solid at room temperature.
  • Atomic Number: Bromine has an atomic number of 35, while iodine has an atomic number of 53.
  • Melting Point: Bromine has a melting point of -7.2°C, while iodine has a melting point of 113.7°C.
  • Boiling Point: Bromine has a boiling point of 58.8°C, while iodine has a boiling point of 184.4°C.
  • Reactivity: Bromine is more reactive than iodine but less reactive than chlorine.
  • Oxidizing Agent: Bromine can remove electrons from iodide ions, producing iodine, while iodine cannot.

Both elements have 7 valence electrons and are composed of nonmetals. They share a -1 oxidation state, are less reactive than fluorine and chlorine, and have a similar electronic configuration.

Comparative Table: Bromine vs Iodine

Here is a table comparing the differences between bromine and iodine:

Property Bromine Iodine
Electron Configuration [Ar] 3d^10 4s^2 4p^5 [Kr] 4d^10 5s^2 5p^5
Position in Periodic Table Group 17 and period 4 Group 17 and period 5
Melting Point -7.2°C 113.7°C
Boiling Point 58.8°C 184.4°C
Physical State Liquid at room temperature Solid at room temperature
Appearance Dark brownish-red liquid Black-shiny crystalline solid
Vapor Forms brown-colored vapor when boiled Forms violet-colored vapor when boiled

Bromine and iodine are both halogens, meaning they are located in Group 17 of the periodic table. They both have 7 electrons in their outermost shell, but iodine is a larger atom. Bromine is a liquid at room temperature, while iodine is a solid.