Halogen addition to acetylenic compounds

Abstract

This thesis is concerned with the relative reactivity of ethylenic and acetylenic compounds with respect to the addition of halogens. Kinetic studies have been made on bromine addition reactions occurring in the dark at 25°C in acetic acid and aqueous solution. Rate constants for the compounds stilbene, phenyl acetylene, tolane, and the sodium salts of fumaric acid and acetylene dicarboxylic acid have been established. Evidence concerning the properties of the acetylenic linkage has been reviewed and summarised, and the mechanism of halogen addition interpreted in terms of these properties.