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Chapter 20: Problem 14

There are three known xenon fluoride covalent compounds: $\mathrm{XeF}_{2}, \mathrm{XeF}_{4},\( and \)\mathrm{XeF}_{6} .$ In general, the xenon fluoride compounds must be stored in an inert atmosphere, free of oxygen and water. Why is this the case?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Xenon fluoride compounds, such as XeF₂, XeF₄, and XeF₆, must be stored in an inert atmosphere free of oxygen and water to prevent the formation of highly reactive and hazardous species. When in contact with water or moisture, they react to form potentially explosive compounds like xenon trioxide (XeO₃) or xenon tetroxide (XeO₄). Additionally, exposure to oxygen may result in the formation of hazardous products, including explosive mixtures. Storing them in an inert atmosphere, such as argon or nitrogen, reduces the risk of dangerous reactions as these gases do not react with xenon fluoride compounds.

Step by step solution

01

Understand xenon fluoride compounds

Xenon is a noble gas, which means it has a full valence electron shell and typically does not form chemical bonds. However, it can form a few compounds with highly electronegative elements like fluorine. These xenon fluoride compounds are covalent in nature and mainly include XeF₂, XeF₄, and XeF₆. These compounds are formed by sharing electrons between xenon and fluorine atoms.
02

Reactivity of xenon fluoride compounds with water

Xenon fluoride compounds are strong oxidizing agents, which means they tend to gain electrons by oxidizing other substrates. When these compounds come in contact with water or moisture, they react to form highly reactive species, including xenon trioxide (XeO₃), xenon tetroxide (XeO₄), or oxyfluorides of xenon. For example, with water, XeF₂ forms Xe and HF: \[ \mathrm{XeF}_{2} + 2 \mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{O} \rightarrow \mathrm{Xe} + 4 \mathrm{HF} + \mathrm{O}_{2} \] These highly reactive species pose a potential safety risk, as they can decompose explosively or even ignite spontaneously.
03

Reactivity of xenon fluoride compounds with oxygen

Xenon fluoride compounds, when mixed with oxygen, can also form hazardous compounds like xenon trioxide (XeO₃), which is highly explosive and can ignite other substances as well. Additionally, when exposed to oxygen, there is a risk that xenon fluoride compounds may form hazardous products, including potentially explosive mixtures with other substances.
04

Importance of an inert atmosphere for storage

To prevent the formation of highly reactive and hazardous species, xenon fluoride compounds should be stored in an inert atmosphere. Inert gases, such as argon or nitrogen, do not react with these compounds and provide a safe and stable environment for storage. The inert atmosphere prevents exposure to oxygen and atmospheric moisture, reducing the risk of dangerous reactions. In conclusion, to store xenon fluoride compounds safely and prevent the formation of highly reactive and hazardous species, it is essential to store them in an inert atmosphere that is free of oxygen and water.

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