HexafluorostannateIV

Hexafluorostannate(IV) refers to the chemical compound with the formula [SnF6]2−. This anion is a complex ion consisting of a central tin atom in the +4 oxidation state surrounded by six fluoride ligands. It is a component of various salts, such as potassium hexafluorostannate(IV) (K2SnF6) and sodium hexafluorostannate(IV) (Na2SnF6). These salts are typically crystalline solids that are soluble in water.

The hexafluorostannate(IV) anion has an octahedral geometry, where the tin atom is at the center and the six fluoride ions occupy the vertices of the octahedron. This structure is characteristic of many hexa-coordinated metal complexes. The Sn-F bond is polar due to the difference in electronegativity between tin and fluorine.

Compounds containing the hexafluorostannate(IV) anion have found some industrial applications, though they are not as widespread as some other fluorine-containing compounds. For example, certain hexafluorostannates have been explored as potential fluxing agents in metallurgy or as components in certain types of glass and ceramic manufacturing. They can also be used in analytical chemistry for the determination of tin. The stability of the Sn-F bond contributes to the chemical inertness of these compounds under certain conditions.