Photolysis Studies of the Chloroacetic Acids Using Light of 2537 A

Abstract

Chloride, carbon dioxide, and carbon monoxide are produced by the action of 2537-A radiation on mono-, di-, and trichloroacetic acids. Methyl chloride, dichloromethane, and chloroform are formed in small but measurable yields from mono-, di-, and trichloroacetic acid, respectively. Trichloroacetic acid was studied in more detail. Added chloride decreases the carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide yields and increases slightly the chloroform yield from trichloroacetic acid. A photo-induced chlorine exchange with chloride was observed for all three acids. The results suggest a photodissociation process as the major initial step in the reactions.