AbstractThe preparation of dialkyl sulphides, selenides and tellurides by alkylating sodium sulphide, selenide or telluride, obtained from sodium and sulphur, selenium or tellurium in liquid ammonia, is very easily carried out and gives good yields. It is also possible to prepare and alkylate sodium disulphide and diselenide in liquid ammonia. The resulting dialkyl disulphides and diselenides in the reaction mixture can be converted simply and in good yields into the corresponding thiols and selenols.