Beryllium Hydride

Beryllium hydride (BeH2) is a binary ionic compound composed of beryllium cations (Be²⁺) and hydride anions (H⁻). It has a linear molecular geometry with bond angles of 180 degrees.

Beryllium hydride is a colorless gas at room temperature and pressure, and it is highly reactive. It can be prepared by reacting beryllium metal with hydrogen gas or by the reaction of lithium hydride with beryllium chloride.

In its solid form, beryllium hydride exists as a white crystalline powder. It has a high melting point of 1300°C and a boiling point of 2400°C. Beryllium hydride is insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents such as benzene.

Beryllium hydride is a Lewis acid, meaning that it can accept pairs of electrons from Lewis bases. It reacts violently with water and acids to produce hydrogen gas. Beryllium hydride is also used as a starting material for the synthesis of other beryllium compounds and as a catalyst in various organic reactions. However, due to its toxicity and carcinogenicity, the use of beryllium hydride is strictly regulated.