XeF4

Xenon tetrafluoride, XeF4, is an inorganic compound of xenon and fluorine. It is one of the xenon fluorides, a family of compounds in which xenon forms bonds with fluorine under controlled conditions. The molecule is square planar, with xenon at the center bonded to four fluorine atoms and two lone pairs of electrons. In the gas phase it has D4h symmetry; in the solid state it adopts a crystalline lattice.

Xf synthesis: XeF4 can be prepared by fluorinating xenon difluoride (XeF2) with fluorine gas. A representative reaction is 2 XeF2 + F2 → XeF4 + XeF6. Under controlled conditions XeF4 can be isolated, often alongside XeF6, which can be separated or converted further. This process is a classic example of disproportionation among xenon fluorides.

Properties: XeF4 is a white crystalline solid at room temperature. It functions as a fluoride source and a fluorinating agent in certain inorganic syntheses. It is relatively reactive toward moisture, hydrolyzing slowly to form xenon oxyfluorides and hydrogen fluoride, highlighting its sensitivity to water and air.

Reactivity and applications: In research, XeF4 is used to explore hypervalent bonding in xenon chemistry and as a precursor to other xenon fluorides. It can participate in fluoride-transfer reactions and, under specialized conditions, contribute to the preparation of higher fluorides such as XeF6. Its role is primarily that of a reagent in inorganic chemistry rather than a widely used material.

Safety: XeF4 is toxic and can release corrosive hydrogen fluoride on hydrolysis. It should be handled under dry, inert or well-ventilated conditions with appropriate PPE, avoiding moisture and incompatible materials. Proper storage and waste disposal are essential due to the reactivity of fluorine compounds.