In the Hg-sensitized photolysis of H2 in the presence
of C2H4 the sensitizer Hg is consumed under
formation
of a metastable compound. The rate of formation and the
steady-state concentration of this compound have
been studied as a function of Hg, H2, and
C2H4 concentration, absorbed light intensity,
temperature, and in
the presence of radical scavengers. All these experiments ask for
the participation of HgH and C2H5 in
the
formation of the Hg compound. We therefore suggest that these two
radicals combine under formation of
HHgC2H5. Further support comes from two
color photolysis experiments where HgH and C2H5
radicals
have been generated independently. HHgC2H5
decomposes under 206 nm irradiation and much slower in
the dark. It is also very easily attacked by
radicals.
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