Photodissociation of Chlorine Gas

Cl2 → 2Cl·

Descripción general

UV or visible light (< 500 nm) cleaves the Cl–Cl bond homolytically to produce two chlorine free radicals. This is the initiation step in many radical chain reactions, including the chlorination of hydrocarbons. Each chlorine radical can propagate thousands of reaction cycles before termination.

Ejemplo cotidiano

The chlorination of methane to produce chloromethane begins with this UV-initiated splitting of chlorine gas.

Importancia industrial

Relevante en la comprensión del daño a la capa de ozono y en los procesos de cloración fotoquímica.

Propiedades

Tipo
Photochemical
Reversible
No
Energía
Endotérmico
ΔH
242,6 kJ/mol

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Photodissociation of Chlorine Gas?
The balanced equation is: Cl₂ → 2Cl·.
What type of reaction is Photodissociation of Chlorine Gas?
Photodissociation of Chlorine Gas is a photochemical reaction.
Is Photodissociation of Chlorine Gas exothermic or endothermic?
Photodissociation of Chlorine Gas is endothermic (absorbs energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is 242.6 kJ/mol.