Xenon Hexafluoride
Xenon hexafluoride (XeF6) is a colorless, odorless, and highly reactive compound composed of one xenon atom and six fluorine atoms. It has a molar mass of 245.29 g/mol and a density of 3.52 g/mL at room temperature.
XeF6 can be synthesized by reacting xenon gas with excess fluorine gas under high pressure and temperature conditions. The reaction typically takes place in the presence of a catalyst such as nickel or platinum.
XeF6 is a powerful oxidizing agent and reacts violently with most organic materials and some inorganic materials. It is soluble in nonpolar solvents such as benzene and carbon tetrachloride but insoluble in water and other polar solvents.
In the solid state, XeF6 forms a highly symmetrical octahedral structure, with six fluorine atoms surrounding the central xenon atom. The bond angles between the xenon and fluorine atoms are approximately 90 degrees, resulting in a highly symmetric arrangement.
XeF6 has numerous applications in the semiconductor industry as a chemical vapor deposition precursor for the production of thin films. It is also used as a fluorinating agent in organic chemistry reactions and in the synthesis of other xenon compounds. However, due to its highly reactive nature and potential hazards, precautions must be taken when handling and storing XeF6.