The Kolbe electrolysis involves the formation of symmetrical hydrocarbons through the coupling of radicals generated from carboxylic acid at an anode via electrolysis. The study shows that the free radicals have been used to initiate the polymerization for the preparation of low molecular weight polystyrene as well as polymers, but under certain conditions the generated radicals disproportionate and form carbocations. This reaction has been modified to occur in liquid ammonia. This reaction is useful for the preparation of hydrocarbons.