The pyrolysis of triethylgallium has been studied in a toluene carrier gas system in the temperature range of 464.7 to 700.7 K and a pressure range of 0.82 to 3.73 kPa. From the data obtained from this work, the following mechanism for the thermal decomposition of the metal alkyl is proposed:[Formula: see text]where [1] is the rate determining step. After runs below 606 K were corrected for the contribution of a concurrent residual reaction, a least-squares analysis of experimental results from 567 to 651 K based on both product and residual alkyl analysis gave[Formula: see text]at 1.60 kPa.The rate constant, k1, is very slightly pressure-dependent as revealed by tests at 648.0 K (80% and 45% decomposition). Studies indicate there is no detectable surface catalysis effect. Similarly, no effect was observed for changes in concentration or contact time.The mechanism for the formation of polymeric gallium hydride in reaction [4] is not clearly defined and may consist of more than one step. Reaction [5] is slow but based on the C2H4:H2 ratio must occur to a significant extent (40–80%) during a run. Further decomposition occurs between runs, causing a build-up of H2 in the reaction vessel.Experimental data for the hydrogen abstraction by ethyl radicals from toluene[Formula: see text]yield the equation[Formula: see text]