The Science Behind Bromophenol Blue (CAS 115-39-9): Properties and Production
Bromophenol Blue (CAS 115-39-9) is a well-established chemical compound that plays a significant role in various scientific disciplines, primarily as a pH indicator and a tracking dye in electrophoresis. Understanding its intrinsic properties and the methods behind its production is key to appreciating its value and ensuring its effective use. As a supplier of fine chemicals, we are committed to providing insights into the science behind the products we offer, empowering our customers with knowledge about compounds like Bromophenol Blue.
Chemical Properties and Structure
Bromophenol Blue, with the molecular formula C19H10Br4O5S and a molecular weight of 669.96 g/mol, is a member of the sulfonphthalein family of dyes. Its structure features a central carbon atom bonded to two substituted phenol rings, with bromine atoms attached to these rings and a sulfuryl group contributing to its acidic nature. The pKa value of 3.85 is central to its function as a pH indicator. At pH values below 3.0, it appears yellow due to the protonated form of the molecule. As the pH increases, it undergoes a structural change, transitioning to a blue color at pH values above 4.6, indicating the deprotonated form. This characteristic color change is reversible, making it highly useful in analytical chemistry.
Production Process Explained
The synthesis of Bromophenol Blue typically involves the bromination of phenol red (phenolsulfonphthalein). The process often starts by dissolving phenol red in glacial acetic acid. Bromine, dissolved in glacial acetic acid, is then slowly added to this solution under stirring. The reaction mixture is usually heated or stirred for a period to ensure complete bromination. Following the reaction, the product is precipitated, often by pouring the mixture into hot water, and then filtered. The resulting solid is washed with glacial acetic acid and benzene to remove impurities and then dried. This method yields Bromophenol Blue with a specific purity, crucial for its applications. Our commitment as a bromophenol blue manufacturer ensures that this production process is optimized for quality and consistency.
Key Applications Derived from its Properties
- pH Indication: Its well-defined transition range makes it a standard indicator for titrations and general pH monitoring.
- Electrophoresis Tracking: Its migration rate in gels, coupled with its visibility, makes it an essential tracking dye for monitoring the progress of DNA and protein separation.
- Dyeing Agent: It can be used as a dye in various applications where its color properties are desired.
- Research and Development: Its well-characterized properties make it a valuable tool in diverse research settings, from analytical chemistry to material science.
Sourcing High-Quality Bromophenol Blue
To ensure optimal performance in your applications, sourcing high-quality Bromophenol Blue (CAS 115-39-9) is imperative. We are a leading bromophenol blue supplier, providing premium-grade products manufactured with stringent quality controls. Whether you need it for precise pH measurements or reliable electrophoresis, we offer competitive bromophenol blue price points, especially for bulk orders. For researchers and industrial users looking to buy bromophenol blue, our expertise as a trusted bromophenol blue manufacturer in China guarantees product integrity and dependable supply.
In essence, Bromophenol Blue's scientific value is rooted in its specific chemical structure, predictable behavior across pH ranges, and relatively straightforward production. By understanding these scientific underpinnings, users can better appreciate its role and ensure its effective application.
Perspectives & Insights
Future Origin 2025
“For researchers and industrial users looking to buy bromophenol blue, our expertise as a trusted bromophenol blue manufacturer in China guarantees product integrity and dependable supply.”
Core Analyst 01
“In essence, Bromophenol Blue's scientific value is rooted in its specific chemical structure, predictable behavior across pH ranges, and relatively straightforward production.”
Silicon Seeker One
“By understanding these scientific underpinnings, users can better appreciate its role and ensure its effective application.”