Iridium hexafluoride

Iridium hexafluoride

Structural formula of Iridium hexafluoride

Iridium hexafluoride, also known as iridium(VI) fluoride, is a chemical compound with the formula IrF_. It is one of the few known hexafluorides and is notable for being a highly reactive and volatile compound. Iridium hexafluoride is a member of the transition metal hexafluorides, which are compounds where a transition metal is bonded to six fluorine atoms.

Properties

Iridium hexafluoride is a yellow crystalline solid at room temperature. It has a melting point of 44 °C and a boiling point of 53.6 °C. The compound is highly reactive and can act as a powerful oxidizing agent. It is known to react with water and many organic compounds, often violently.

The molecular geometry of IrF_ is octahedral, which is typical for hexafluorides. This geometry arises because the six fluorine atoms are symmetrically arranged around the central iridium atom, minimizing electron pair repulsion according to VSEPR theory.

Synthesis

Iridium hexafluoride can be synthesized by the direct fluorination of iridium metal at high temperatures. The reaction typically involves passing fluorine gas over iridium at temperatures around 300 °C. The reaction can be represented as:

Ir + 3 F_ _ IrF_

This process requires careful control of conditions to prevent the formation of other iridium fluorides, such as iridium pentafluoride (IrF_).

Applications

Due to its high reactivity, iridium hexafluoride is primarily of interest in research rather than practical applications. It is used in the study of fluorine chemistry and as a precursor for the synthesis of other iridium compounds. Its ability to oxidize other materials makes it a useful reagent in certain chemical reactions.

Safety

Iridium hexafluoride is a highly corrosive and toxic compound. It must be handled with extreme care, using appropriate protective equipment and in a controlled environment. The compound can cause severe burns upon contact with skin and is harmful if inhaled.

Related pages

• Iridium
• Fluorine
• Transition metal hexafluorides
• Iridium pentafluoride