Animated video: 37 principles of chemical reactions and their dangers – Aluminum encountering bromine

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Principle: Aluminum is a highly reactive metal; it remains stable in air due to a dense oxide layer on its surface, but it reacts violently with many other oxidizing agents. Bromine is one of them. The reaction of the resulting aluminum tribromide when dissolved in water also releases heat, which can lead to an explosion. The test tubes used in the experiment must first be cooled, then slowly dissolved using a gentle stream of water. After cleaning, sodium thiosulfate solution is added to reduce any remaining bromine. Fun fact: The actual form in which \"aluminum tribromide\" exists is Al2Br6. It is very stable; even when vaporized, only a portion of it decomposes into AlBr3. Recorder: ChemToddler. Hazard: High. Bromine is volatile and corrosive; inhalation is toxic, so protective measures are necessary. The reaction is vigorous and there will be splashing; be sure to start with a small amount!