What is the Difference Between Bromine and Mercury?

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Bromine and mercury are both chemical elements with distinct properties and uses. The key differences between them include:

  1. Category: Bromine is a non-metal, while mercury is a metal.
  2. Liquid state: Both bromine and mercury are liquids at room temperature. This is unique because mercury is the only metal that is liquid at room temperature, and bromine is the only non-metal that is liquid at room temperature.
  3. Boiling point: Bromine has a boiling point above room temperature, while mercury's boiling point is below room temperature.
  4. Toxicity: Bromine can be toxic on inhalation and corrosive on touch, while mercury is less toxic and less volatile.
  5. Applications: Bromine is commonly used in flame retardants, water treatment, and pharmaceuticals. Mercury is often utilized in thermometers, fluorescent lamps, and electrical switches.

In summary, bromine and mercury are both liquid at room temperature, but they have different properties and uses. Bromine is a non-metal with a higher boiling point and is used in various applications, while mercury is a metal with a lower boiling point and is used in other industries and applications.

Comparative Table: Bromine vs Mercury

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

Property Bromine Mercury
Classification Nonmetal Metal
Atomic Number 35 80
Atomic Symbol Br Hg
Atomic Weight 79.904 200.59
Phase at STP Liquid Liquid
Color Red Silver
Group in Periodic Table Group 17 (Halogens) Group 12 (Transition Metals)
Melting Point 265.8 K 234.32 K
Boiling Point 332 K 629.88 K

Bromine is a nonmetal and a halogen, while mercury is a transition metal. Both elements can be found in liquid form at room temperature and pressure, but they have different atomic numbers, symbols, and classification in the periodic table.