The chemical formula of rhodium(V) fluoride is [RhF₅]₄.
Rhodium(V) fluoride, also known as rhodium pentafluoride, is a fascinating inorganic compound characterized by its dark red color. Unlike a simple monomeric structure, this compound exists as a tetramer, meaning four RhF₅ units are linked together to form a larger molecular entity. This tetrameric structure is represented as [RhF₅]₄.
Understanding Rhodium(V) Fluoride
Rhodium(V) fluoride is a compound where rhodium is in a +5 oxidation state, bonded with fluorine atoms. Its unique tetrameric structure contributes to its specific physical and chemical properties.
- Formation: Rhodium(V) fluoride can be synthesized by carefully heating rhodium(VI) fluoride (RhF₆). Rhodium(VI) fluoride itself is a highly corrosive material formed when metallic rhodium reacts directly with fluorine gas. The controlled decomposition of RhF₆ yields the more stable RhF₅.
- Structure: The notation [RhF₅]₄ indicates that the molecule is composed of four repeating RhF₅ units. In this tetrameric arrangement, each rhodium atom is octahedrally coordinated by fluorine atoms, and some fluorine atoms bridge between rhodium centers, forming a stable cyclic structure.
Key Properties
Here’s a summary of some key aspects of rhodium(V) fluoride:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | [RhF₅]₄ |
| Oxidation State | Rhodium (Rh) is in the +5 oxidation state |
| Appearance | Dark red solid |
| Structure | Tetrameric (four RhF₅ units linked together) |
| Formation | Formed by heating rhodium(VI) fluoride (RhF₆) |
Understanding the precise chemical formula and its structural implications is crucial for studying the reactivity and applications of this unique rhodium compound in inorganic chemistry.
