What is sodium hypobromite?

Sodium hypobromite is a chemical compound with the formula NaOBr. It is a pale yellow to colorless liquid or solid that is soluble in water.

Sodium hypobromite is primarily used as a disinfectant and fungicide. It is effective in killing bacteria, fungi, and algae, making it useful in water treatment and sanitation applications.

In organic chemistry, sodium hypobromite is sometimes used as a reagent for bromination reactions. It can be used to convert alcohols to bromo compounds, or to form bromohydrins from alkenes.

Sodium hypobromite should be handled with care as it is a strong oxidizing agent and can cause skin and eye irritation. It should be stored in a cool, dry place away from heat and sources of ignition.