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Bromine

Bromine is the only non-metallic element found in liquid form at room temperature. This deep red halogen possesses an unpleasant, characteristic odour and a vapour that is irritating to the eyes and throat.

Pesticides, bleaching, and sanitizing agents, flame retardants and tear-gas all exploit bromine's irritating and corrosive properties. Other bromine compounds are used in photography or serve as fuel additives.

Both the liquid and gaseous forms of bromine present serious health hazards. Skin in contact with liquid bromine becomes painfully irritated. A powerful bleach, bromine can penetrate the skin and cause necrosis – the death of a section of tissue. Vapours of bromine also irritate the eyes and inflame the respiratory tract.