Process for the preparation of an alpha-, omega-disubstituted alkane by reacting a vinyl compound such as ethylene with a chlorine, bromine, or cyanide ion in the presence of an inorganic symmetrical per oxygen compound and a metallic ion of Ni.sup..sup.+2, Co.sup..sup.+2, Mn.sup..sup.+2, Tb.sup..sup.+3, Nd.sup..sup.+3, Pr.sup..sup.+3, Fe.sup..sup.+2, Cu.sup..sup.+2, or Tl.sup..sup.+1.
