Question

Write a note on free radicals and radiolysis of water.

Answer 1

If a deoxygenated mixture of PCBs in isopropanol or mineral oil is irradiated with gamma rays, then the PCBs will be dechlorinated to form inorganic chloride and biphenyl. The reaction works best in isopropanol if potassium hydroxide (caustic potash) is added.

Answer 2

$<b><u>$ The radiolysis of water due to ionizing radiation results in the production of electrons, H● atoms, ●OH radicals, H3O+ ions and molecules (dihydrogen H2 and hydrogen peroxide H2O2). A brief history of the development of the understanding of water radiolysis is presented, with a focus on the H2 production.