Photokinetic examination of (Z,E,E)-4,4′-distyrylazobenzene

Abstract 4,4′-Distyrylazobenzenes demonstrate a photokinetic equilibrium and a superimposed thermal backward reaction in which the absorption coefficient of one of the partners in the equilibrium is principally unknown. Using the dependence of the photostationary state on the irradiation intensity, the photochemical quantum yields ϕ 1 A and ϕ 2 B were determined, as well as the thermal rate constant k , as a function of the irradiation and observation wavelengths. Experimental difficulties and the wavelength dependence of ϕ 1 A and ϕ 2 B are discussed.