Question

Explain the shape of XeF₄ on the basis of VSEPR theory.

Answer 1

The Xe atom in its second excited state undergoes sp³d²-hybridisation to generate the XeF₄ molecule, which has a square planar shape. Four Xe-F σ-bonds are created when the half-filled orbitals of four fluorine atoms overlap with the four half-filled sp³d² orbitals that are arranged in a plane. The two remaining sp³d²-hybrid orbitals, which are located above and below the plane, each have two electrons and do not form bonds. The formation of XeF₄ molecule and its square planar structure are: