The spectrum of the flame of carbon disulphide

Abstract

The present investigation of the spectrum of the flame of carbon disulphide was undertaken in the hope that further light might be thrown on the process of combustion of this substance. Extensive experiments have been made in the past, chiefly relating to explosions of mixtures of carbon disulphide and other gases, but a perusal of the literature suggests that the nature of the reactions which take place in such experiments, or in the ordinary flame itself, is still somewhat obscure. In connection with such experiments as have been made by chemists, the only reference to observations with the spectroscope seems to be that made by Dixon and Russell, who stated that when CS 2 was burnt in a Smithell’s flame separator, an apparently continuous spectrum was yielded by both the inner and outer cones. On the other hand, the spectrum of the CS 2 flame has been described by several spectroscopists, but the records have been incomplete and further observations seemed to be desirable. In particular, observations over a greater range of spectrum seemed to be necessary, as well as more exact measurements of the bands already known to be emitted. With such extended observations it appeared possible that our present knowledge of the band spectra associated with molecules of sulphur and carbon, and some of their compounds, might aid in tracing the reactions which precede the formation of the final products of combustion.