Xenon tetrafluoride

Xenon Tetrafluoride

Xenon tetrafluoride structure

Xenon tetrafluoride is a chemical compound with the formula XeF_. It is one of the most stable xenon compounds and is notable for being the first discovered binary compound of a noble gas. Xenon tetrafluoride is a colorless, crystalline solid that is stable at room temperature.

Synthesis

Xenon tetrafluoride is synthesized by the direct reaction of xenon gas with fluorine gas. The reaction is carried out in a nickel container at a temperature of about 400 °C and a pressure of 6 atm. The chemical equation for the synthesis is:

Xe + 2 F_ _ XeF_

This reaction is exothermic and results in the formation of xenon tetrafluoride as a solid.

Structure

Xenon tetrafluoride has a square planar molecular geometry. The xenon atom is at the center of the molecule, surrounded by four fluorine atoms at the corners of a square. This geometry is a result of the VSEPR theory, which predicts the arrangement of electron pairs around the central atom to minimize repulsion.

Properties

Xenon tetrafluoride is a stable compound that is not reactive with water. It is a powerful fluorinating agent and can react with other substances to form xenon compounds. The compound is also known for its ability to act as a Lewis acid, accepting electron pairs from other molecules.

Uses

Xenon tetrafluoride is used in the field of chemistry as a fluorinating agent. It is also used in the synthesis of other xenon compounds and in research involving noble gases.

Safety

While xenon tetrafluoride is stable, it should be handled with care. It can release toxic fluorine gas if it decomposes. Proper safety precautions, including the use of protective equipment and ventilation, should be observed when handling this compound.

Related pages

• Xenon
• Fluorine
• Noble gas compounds
• VSEPR theory