Generation of Free Radicals

Abstract

Most reactions initiated by thermal energy, light, γ-radiation, and mechanical forces involve the formation of free radicals. In such reactions a two-electron chemical bond is cleaved either symmetrically or unsymmetrically:

$$ A:B \to A \cdot + B \cdot $$

((1.1))

.

$$ A:B \to {A^{+} } + :{B^{-} } $$

((1.2))

In reaction (1.1) free radicals are formed, whereas in reaction (1.2) ions are formed.