Abstract
Using the technique of gas phase pulse radiolysis, the Arrhenius parameters for the reactions of CN radicals with methane and ethane have been determined. With methane there is an activation energy of 8.36± 0.5 kJ mol–1 whereas for the reaction with ethane the value is 0(< 800) J mol–1. Also reported are the rate constants at 300 K for reaction with CD4 and propane. The effects of vibrational excitation of the CN radicals on the apparent rate constants is discussed.