Problem 174 - A Complete Resource Book in Chemistry for JEE Main

Question

\(\mathrm{XeF}_{6}\) on hydrolysis gives: (a) \(\mathrm{XeO}_{2} \mathrm{~F}_{2}\) (b) \(\mathrm{XeOF}_{4}\) (c) \(\mathrm{XeO}_{4}\) (d) \(\mathrm{XeO}_{3}\)

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The hydrolysis of \(\mathrm{XeF}_6\) yields \(\mathrm{XeOF}_4\).

Step 1: Understand the Reaction

Hydrolysis involves the reaction of a compound with water. In this case, we are examining the reaction of \(\mathrm{XeF}_6\) with water to determine the resulting hydrolysis products.

Step 2: Consider Hydrolysis of XeF6

Upon hydrolysis with water, \(\mathrm{XeF}_6\) undergoes a chemical change. Typically, the fluoride ions from \(\mathrm{XeF}_6\) react with the oxygens from water to form various xenon oxides and oxyfluorides.

Step 3: Identify Possible Products

The common products of \(\mathrm{XeF}_6\) hydrolysis are xenon oxyfluorides or oxides. Based on the given options: \(\mathrm{XeO}_2\mathrm{F}_2\), \(\mathrm{XeOF}_4\), \(\mathrm{XeO}_4\), and \(\mathrm{XeO}_3\) are possible, but we need to identify the most likely one.

Step 4: Predict the Most Likely Product

The most common product of \(\mathrm{XeF}_6\) when hydrolyzed is \(\mathrm{XeOF}_4\), known as an oxyfluoride, which forms other fluorides alongside the oxyfluoride. Among the options provided, \(\mathrm{XeOF}_4\) is the most stable and typical product.

Key Concepts

Xenon oxyfluorides

Xenon oxyfluorides are fascinating compounds that combine the noble gas xenon with oxygen and fluorine. These compounds belong to the category where xenon is oxidized beyond its usual inert state, demonstrating its ability to form complex structures. The formation of xenon oxyfluorides often involves xenon hexafluoride (\(\text{XeF}_6\)), which can react with water during hydrolysis.

• Xenon oxyfluorides can vary in composition, but common forms include \(\text{XeOF}_4\) and \(\text{XeO}_2\text{F}_2\).
• These compounds display unique chemical properties owing to xenon's ability to form stable bonds with both oxygen and fluorine.
• Xenon oxyfluorides are important in understanding the broader capabilities and chemistry of noble gases, and they challenge the assumption that these gases are always inert.

Through these reactions, xenon oxyfluorides contribute to our knowledge of chemical bonding and the behavior of noble gases under certain conditions.

Chemical reactions in chemistry

A chemical reaction involves the transformation of one or more substances into different substances. In the case of the hydrolysis of \(\text{XeF}_6\), it reacts with water, leading to a chemical change.

• Hydrolysis is a type of chemical reaction where a compound reacts with water, causing the breakdown of chemical bonds.
• XeF₆ undergoes this reaction to form products like \(\text{XeOF}_4\), which are less oxidized than XeF₆ alone.
• This reaction exemplifies a broader class of reactions that involve the incorporation of water molecules, often resulting in a more stable compound than the original reactants.

Understanding these reactions helps in predicting and controlling various chemical processes crucial in both laboratory and industrial settings.

Inorganic chemistry reactions

In the realm of inorganic chemistry, reactions involve compounds that typically do not include carbon, such as xenon compounds. These reactions highlight the diversity of inorganic substances and their ability to undergo complex transformations.

• The reaction of xenon hexafluoride with water is a classic example of an inorganic chemistry reaction, producing \(\text{XeOF}_4\).
• Inorganic reactions like these are crucial for probing the less explored areas of chemical behavior of elements and their compounds, especially those involving noble gases.
• Studying the principles of inorganic chemistry can reveal new insights into catalysis, materials science, and industrial applications.

Through the investigation of such reactions, the field continues to evolve, offering a deeper understanding of elemental interactions outside of organic frameworks.