A solution of 60 gm (0.284) of 2-bromopyridine N-oxide hydrochloride is neutralized with 25% aqueous sodium hydroxide. In a well-ventilated hood, to this solution, heated with stirring on a steam bath, is added dropwise over a 1-hr period a solution of 32 gm (0.57 mole) of sodium hydrogen sulfide in 150 ml of water. After the addition has been completed, heating is continued for 0.5 hr. The reaction mixture is cooled, filtered, and acidified with 6 Ν hydrochloric acid to afford 24 gm (67%), m.p. 65-68°C. Upon recrystallization from aqueous ethanol, the melting point is raised to 68-70°C.
Similar results were obtained when an equivalent quantity of sodium sulfide was substituted for sodium hydrogen sulfide.
