Bromine

Bromine is a chemical element with the symbol Br and atomic number 35, which is part of the halogen group in the periodic table that includes elements such as fluorine, chlorine, iodine and astatine. Bromine is not typically found in pure form in natural water sources, but it can be present in various forms and compounds, found in natural water sources, primary in the form of bromide ions (Br⁻). These ions are dissolved in water and are derived from the weathering of rocks and minerals containing bromine, as seawater is a significant reservoir of bromine, and the concentration of bromide ions is higher in seawater compared to freshwater sources, which can be released into the atmosphere from the oceans. In some cases, water treatment processes may involve the removal of bromine and other halogens from water to meet water quality standards and regulations. Bromine itself is not typically a health concern in water at natural levels, as it is present as bromide ions, however, there can be health risks associated with brominated disinfection byproducts (DBPs) that can form when bromide ions react with disinfectants like chlorine during water treatment. These DBPs are a focus of water quality regulation and research.