Molecule Movies Show Acids In Action

By Maia Weinstock
Feb 1, 2003 6:00 AMNov 12, 2019 5:00 AM

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news
 

Chemist A. Welford Castleman of Pennsylvania State University has created a high-speed atomic movie illustrating the step-by-step dissolution of hydrogen bromide, a key ozone-eating acid. His work could help protect the ozone layer and lead to improved versions of industrial acids, which are used to manufacture everything from computer chips to pharmaceuticals.

Castleman and his colleagues used femto-lasers, which emit light pulses once every quadrillionth of a second, to study how a hydrogen bromide molecule splits apart in water. "The pulses allowed us to take snapshots of the chemical process as it happened," says team member Sean Hurley. The researchers watched water molecules gather around the hydrogen bromide and snatch its single hydrogen atom, leaving behind electrically charged molecular fragments. "Hydrogen bromide does not react by itself when it's in gaseous form," Hurley says. When it comes in contact with atmospheric water, however, the acid splits into components that are extremely reactive, able to etch a silicon wafer or destroy protective ozone.

1 free article left
Want More? Get unlimited access for as low as $1.99/month

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

1 free articleSubscribe
Discover Magazine Logo
Want more?

Keep reading for as low as $1.99!

Subscribe

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

More From Discover
Recommendations From Our Store
Stay Curious
Join
Our List

Sign up for our weekly science updates.

 
Subscribe
To The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

Copyright © 2024 Kalmbach Media Co.