A Review of the Radiation Chemistry of Single-Carbon Compounds and Some Reactions of the Hydrated Electron in Aqueous Solution

Abstract

for understanding the radiation chemistry of aqueous organic systems. In this paper we shall attempt to explain some aspects of the radiation chemistry of single-carbon compounds by using the absolute rate constants and already established yields of intermediate species as a guide. We shall deal specifically with reactions of the hydrated electron, the H atom, and the hydroxyl radical with the components of irradiated water and with dissolved organic compounds. Our goal is to deduce the basic mechanisms occurring in simple organic compounds containing only carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen bonds. Later papers will treat the radiation chemistry of organic compounds of greater complexity. We shall deal with methane, methanol, formaldehyde, formic acid, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide. Finally we shall discuss some reactions of organic molecules with the hydrated electron, eq . SINGLE-CARBON COMPOUNDS