How Many Covalent Bonds are Predicted for Each Atom in Br?

The number of covalent bonds predicted for a bromine (Br) atom is 1, 3, 5, and 7.

Bromine, located in the fourth period of the periodic table, possesses the ability to expand its octet. This expansion is due to the presence of d-orbitals, which allows bromine to form more than the traditional single bond often associated with halogens.

Here's a breakdown of why bromine can form multiple covalent bonds:

• Single Bond: Bromine readily forms a single covalent bond, which is its most common bonding pattern.
• Expanded Octet: Due to the availability of d-orbitals, bromine can accommodate more than eight electrons in its valence shell, leading to the formation of 3, 5, and even 7 covalent bonds in certain compounds.

Examples of Bromine Forming Multiple Covalent Bonds:

• While the reference does not provide examples, compounds like bromine trifluoride (BrF₃) and bromine pentafluoride (BrF₅) showcase bromine forming 3 and 5 covalent bonds, respectively. In perbromic acid (HBrO₄), bromine forms 7 covalent bonds, demonstrating the full extent of its bonding capability.

Therefore, it is important to note that while bromine typically forms one covalent bond, it can expand its octet and thus form **1, 3, 5, and 7** covalent bonds.