The formation of aromatic hydrocarbons at high temperatures. XXV. The pyrolysis of [3-¹⁴C]indene

Abstract

The pyrolysis of [3-¹⁴C]indene at 700º has given a tar from which six compounds have been isolated in sufficient quantity and purity for radiochemical analysis. All were found to have activity corresponding approximately to two labelled atoms. It is concluded that scission of the weakest carbon-carbon bonds in indene gives three "primary" radicals which then undergo "dimerization" to give the major products.