Hybridization states of the 8 orbitals (*) of Xe and Os

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the hybridization states of the 8 orbitals of xenon (Xe) and osmium (Os) in the compounds XeF8 and OsF8. It is established that XeF8 is not a stable compound, with XeF6 being the more stable variant, while OsF8 lacks empirical observation. The conversation highlights that classical valence bond theory (VBT) suggests the involvement of f-hybrid orbitals in OsF8, while XeF8 does not utilize d or f orbitals in bonding. Shaik's book on modern valence-bond theory is recommended as a key reference for understanding these concepts.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum theory and valence-bond theory (VBT)
  • Familiarity with hybridization concepts in chemistry
  • Knowledge of the stability of xenon and osmium fluorides
  • Basic grasp of orbital hybridization types (e.g., sp, sp2, sp3, f-hybrid)
NEXT STEPS
  • Research Shaik's book on modern valence-bond theory for in-depth understanding
  • Study the stability and properties of XeF6 and its implications for XeF8
  • Examine the role of f-hybrid orbitals in transition metal compounds, particularly OsF8
  • Explore the Wikipedia page on xenon halides for additional context on bonding behavior
USEFUL FOR

Chemists, particularly those specializing in inorganic chemistry, researchers studying transition metal complexes, and students seeking to understand hybridization in complex compounds.

dextercioby
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Dear all,

can you point me to a book reference where the hybridization states of the 8 orbitals (*) of Xe and Os in these 2 compounds \mbox{XeF_{8}} and \mbox{OsF_{8}} are justified in agreement with the quantum theory?

Do these 16 bonds involve the "f" orbitals or not ?

Thank you

Added(*): 8 <valence shell electrons>.
 
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This post makes little sense to me.
Quantum theory is not at odds with valence-bond theory; the latter is derived from the former. These compounds have a lot more than 8 orbitals. XeF8 is not a stable compound (XeF6 is) and I don't know that OsF8 has been observed in practice either.

Anyway, in classical VBT, the osmium compound would probably have f-hybrid orbitals involved directly, but not xenon hexafluoride.

Shaik's book on modern valence-bond theory is the best on the topic.
 


At the first glance http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xenon#Halides seems pretty ok. The whole article seems pretty ok.

So let's choose the part here

<The xenon fluorides behave as both fluoride acceptors and fluoride donors, forming salts that contain such cations as XeF+ and Xe2F3+, and anions such as XeF5−, XeF7−, and XeF82−>.

Can the bonds in the last ion be justified by hybridization theory ? I'm thinking f2sp3d2 ?

Ok, the wiki page on Os doen't mention the F_8 compound, but what about the F_7 ? Should't that be fsp3d2 ?
 
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In main group compounds, neither d nor f orbitals contribute to bonding or hybridization.
For a modern valence bond description see e.g.:

http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/S1380-7323(99)80022-3
 
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