XeF7

Xenon heptafluoride, with the chemical formula XeF7, is a hypothetical compound of xenon and fluorine. Theoretical studies have predicted its existence, but it has not been experimentally synthesized or confirmed. Xenon is a noble gas, known for its chemical inertness, but under specific conditions, it can form compounds, particularly with highly electronegative elements like fluorine. Existing known xenon fluorides include XeF2, XeF4, and XeF6.

The theoretical structure of XeF7 is predicted to be a pentagonal bipyramid, similar to the structure of iodine heptafluoride (IF7), which is a stable compound. However, the larger size of the xenon atom and the electron distribution in its valence shell are thought to make the formation of XeF7 energetically unfavorable compared to other xenon fluorides. Calculations suggest that a significant amount of energy would be required to form this compound, and it would likely be highly unstable if it did exist. Further research would be needed to definitively prove or disprove its existence, but current understanding leans towards its non-existence under normal laboratory conditions.