Homogeneous catalysis of gaseous reactions. Part I.—The decomposition of isopropyl ether under the influence of halides

In considering the mechanism of chemical reactions from a general point of view one cannot fail to be impressed by the apparent gulf separating the relatively simple processes occurring in gases from those taking place in solutions. The very common dependence of reactions in solution upon catalytic influences such as those of acid or basic molecules is striking, and does not appear to be nearly so characteristic of gaseous changes. It was recently found* that iodine vapour readily catalysed the gaseous decomposition of isopropyl ether according to the equation:— It seems possible, therefore, that a systematic study of similar reactions may constitute a first step towards bridging the gulf which has been referred to, by revealing under the simpler conditions of the gaseous state the mode of action of a process very commonly observed in solution.