Write the hydrolysis products of XeF2, XeF4 and XeF6 and discuss the factors which affect the hydrolysis.
Hydrolysis of Xenon Fluorides
The process of hydrolysis of xenon fluorides involves a number of intermediates and can be carried out via multiple pathways. The initial formation of a xenon-oxygen bond, followed by the subsequent release of hydrogen fluoride, is an essential reaction pathway. Hydrolysis details for different xenon fluorides are given below:
Hydrolysis of XeF2
2XeF2(s) + 2H2O(l) → 2Xe(g) + 4HF(aq) + O2(g)Hydrolysis of XeF4
6XeF4 + 12H2O → 4Xe + 2XeO3 + 24HF + 3O2Hydrolysis of XeF6
XeF6 + 3H2O → XeO3 + 6HFPartial hydrolysis of XeF6 yields oxyfluorides through the following steps:
XeF6 + H2O → XeOF4 + 2HF XeF6 + 2H2O → XeO2F2 + 4HFFactors Affecting Hydrolysis
The rate and extent of hydrolysis of xenon fluorides are governed by several key parameters:
Identity of Xenon Fluoride: Different xenon fluorides exhibit varying reactivity configurations toward hydrolysis. Generally, the higher the formal oxidation state of the central xenon atom, the more vigorous the reactivity.
Concentration of Water: Increasing the concentration of water directly shifts the equilibrium to accelerate the structural rate of decomposition.
Temperature: Elevated temperatures lower systemic kinetic barriers, speeding up the reaction output paths.
pH Values: The net pH of the surrounding reaction medium deeply influences chemical paths and alters final structural xenon-oxygen species profiles.
The end product of the complete hydrolysis of XeF6 is:
Check Answer
Correct Option: C (XeO3)
Complete hydrolysis of XeF6 completely substitutes all fluorine ligands to produce one molecule of xenon trioxide and six molecules of hydrogen fluoride:
XeF6 + 3H2O → XeO3 + 6HF