The Mercury Photosensitized Decomposition of Ethane IV. The Reaction at High Temperatures

The mercury photosensitized decomposition of ethane has been investigated at temperatures up to 475°C. It is found that the products of the reaction are very similar to those at low temperatures. It is concluded that the primary step is a C–H bond split, and that the most important secondary reactions are H+C2H6→C2H5+H2H+C2H5→2CH3.The quantum yield approximately doubles on going from 100° to 475°C. No evidence of chain characteristics is found up to 475°C, and it is concluded that the mechanism of the reaction at high temperatures does not differ essentially from that at low temperatures.