Physical And Chemical Properties Of Arsenic Trifluoride

Arsenic trifluoride (AsF3) is a colorless, highly toxic and corrosive gas with a pungent odor. Its physical properties include a boiling point of -56.2°C and a melting point of -114.3°C. AsF3 is soluble in water, ethanol, and ether.

AsF3 is a Lewis acid, which means it can accept electron pairs from other molecules or ions to form a chemical bond. It reacts violently with water, releasing hydrogen fluoride (HF) gas and producing arsenous acid (H3AsO3):

AsF3 + 3H2O → 3HF + H3AsO3

AsF3 also reacts with bases, such as sodium hydroxide (NaOH), to form arsenites:

AsF3 + 3NaOH → Na3AsO3 + 3H2O

In addition, AsF3 can react with some organic compounds, such as alcohols, to form alkylarsonic acids or esters:

AsF3 + 3ROH → R3AsO + 3HF

AsF3 has a trigonal pyramidal molecular geometry, with three fluorine atoms bonded to an arsenic atom at the apex of the pyramid. The electronegativity difference between As and F atoms creates a polar covalent bond in AsF3, with the fluorine atoms being more electronegative and thus having a partial negative charge.

Overall, AsF3 is a highly reactive and toxic compound that requires careful handling and storage.