The polarography of beryllium halides in acetonitrile

Abstract

Polarographic reduction steps for various beryllium salts in acetonitrile have been recorded in tetrapropylammonium perchlorate, chloride, bromide, and iodide supporting electrolytes. The experimental results indicate that free halogen acid (which is strongly associated in acetonitrile) is produced as a result of solvolysis of beryllium. The concentration of water affects the degree of solvolysis by altering the halogen acid dissociation constants. A water to beryllium ratio of 4 : 1 brings about almost complete (99%) solvolysis of 3mM beryllium chloride. However, insufficient evidence was obtained to prove conclusively that water was the solvolytic agent.