The gas-phase decomposition of ethyl bromide

Abstract

The gas-phase decomposition of ethyl bromide at 423° in the presence of both ethylene and hydrogen bromide has been investigated. These additives, which are also the products, each influence the rate strongly but in opposite ways. The variation of initial rate with reactant pressure is given by (P in cm)               k₁ (min^-1) = 15.2x10^-3+19.5x10^-3(P_EtBrP_HBr/P_Ene)^1/2 This has been interpreted in terms of a unimolecular decomposition together with a bromine atom carried chain reaction with simple steps that involve the products. Some insight into the unaccompanied decomposition has been gained. Some remarks about the role of olefinic inhibitors in reactions producing hydrogen bromide have been made.