The rate law of the reaction of HgCl2 with alkenes in aqueous solution
s was derived that adequately describes experimental observations. The
reaction rate is proportional to reactant concentrations. The reactio
n partial orders are equal to unity. The reaction is inhibited by hydr
ogen chloride, which is the product. The kinetics of the reaction was
studied in the presence of an additive containing a common anion with
the reactant. The concentration of the additive was higher than the co
ncentration of HCl formed during the reaction. The reciprocal specific
reaction rate linearly depended on the additive concentration. Reacti
on schemes are discussed that agree with the kinetic data.