When it comes to boiling points, there are a few elements that stand out. Not only are their boiling points high, but they’re also quite hot. While there are hundreds of elements, today we’re going to focus on just one: the hottest element that has the highest boiling point.
Bromine
Bromine has the highest boiling point of any element, with a boiling point of 59 °C. This element is a red-brown, volatile liquid at room temperature, highly corrosive and reactive. Bromine is found in ocean water, and evaporates into the atmosphere in a form referred to as ‘elemental bromine.’ Because of its elementally reactive nature and volatility, elemental bromine is an environmental pollutant.
Here are a few of the uses of bromine as a result of its elementally reactive nature:
- Added to organic compounds to create flame-retardants
- Component of photo-initiators
- Used in fumigation, photography, and in medical treatments like bronchodilators
- Used to produce hypobromous acid in food preservation
Though typically used in the form of salts or organic compounds, bromine in its elementally reactive form can be hazardous. As such, it is important to take appropriate safety precautions when working with bromine, including using protective eyewear, gloves, and a face mask.
We hope this article helped shine some light on the element with the highest boiling point! Ultimately, you now know why this element is so hot and why it has the ability to reach such high temperatures. Aside from its industrial advantages, this element has surely earned its place in scientific history.