A three-step mechanism has been suggested for the formation of carbonyl chloride:
Step 1: Cl₂ → 2 Cl
Step 2: Cl + CO → COCl
Step 3: COCl + Cl₂ → COCl₂ + Cl
Which species is an intermediate in the mechanism?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In step 2, Cl reacts with CO to form COCl, which is then consumed in step 3. Therefore, COCl is an intermediate in the mechanism. Cl and CO are reactants in their respective steps and COCl₂ is a product of step 3.

A Three-Step Mechanism Has Been Suggested for the Formation of Carbonyl