Photochemical reaction of chloroform (CHCl₃) with oxygen (O₂) under light yields phosgene gas (COCl₂). The process is detailed as follows:
Chloroform (CHCl₃) is susceptible to reaction under light, especially UV, due to its carbon-halogen bonds.
Oxygen (O₂) in the air acts as an oxidant. Light energy catalyzes the reaction between chloroform and oxygen.
The simplified reaction equation is: CHCl₃ + O₂ → COCl₂ + 2HCl
This equation shows chloroform reacting with oxygen to produce phosgene (COCl₂) and hydrogen chloride (HCl) gas.
Phosgene gas is a dangerous substance, formerly employed as a chemical weapon. Thus, careful handling of chloroform when exposed to light and air is crucial to prevent inadvertent phosgene formation.
Reactants
Conditions
Product
CHCl₃ + O₂
Light Exposure
COCl₂ + 2HCl
Based on the provided information, the reaction's product is identified as phosgene gas.