Reactivity of OH and O– in the radiolysis of aqueous solutions

Abstract

2-Propanol has been used as a reference solute to determine the relative reactivities of the hydroxyl radical in the radiolysis of aqueous solutions. Ionic strength effects confirm that in alkaline solution its ionized form O^– is the significant reaction intermediate, and it is possible to compare the reactivities of both species. O^– is much less reactive in addition reactions and electron transfer reactions with negative ions though it is equally reactive in abstracting hydrogen atoms. The effect of pH on the oxidizing radical yield is discussed.