Question

Enter a balanced chemical equation for the reaction between aluminum metal and liquid bromine.

Answer 1

Answer:

• 2Al (s) + 3Br₂ (l) → 2AlBr₃(s)

Explanation:

1) Word equation:

• aluminum metal + liquid bromine → aluminum bromide

2) Chemical equation:

• Al (s) + Br₂ (l) → AlBr₃(s)

3) Balanced chemical equation:

• 2Al (s) + 3Br₂ (l) → 2AlBr₃(s)

4) Notes:

• The most common oxidation state of aluminum is +3.

• Bromine has 5 common oxidation states: -1, +1, +3, +5, and +7.

• Since aluminum has a positive oxidation state, bromine must have the negative oxidation state, - 1.

• In the molecular formula the valences (oxidation numbers) are exchanged as subscripts, that is the reason Al has subscript 1 (understood) while Br has subscript 3.

• This is combination or synthesis reaction: two elements combine to form a new compound.

• This is a very exothermic reaction which yields light (sparks) and heat.

• The product, AlBr₃ is a molecular compound (not ionic).