The stoichiometry and kinetics of the reactions of Co (dmgH), L and polyhalomethanes (RX) are reported. In both acetone and benzene the data are in accord with a two-step mechanism, the first and rate-limiting step being halogen atom abstraction by the cobalt complex and formation of a free radical. The existence and reactivity of the latter intermediate for the case R.=. CC13 were examined by use of 4-hydroxy-2, 2, 6, 6- ...