Is XeO2F4 in the D4h Point Group?

  • Thread starter Thread starter ochemnerd
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Group Point
Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the assignment of the point group of symmetry for the compound XeO2F4. Participants explore the implications of its molecular geometry and symmetry elements, comparing it to related compounds and considering different point group classifications.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant initially proposes that XeO2F4 belongs to the D4h point group based on its symmetry elements, drawing parallels to XeF4.
  • There is uncertainty about whether the correct point group for XeO2F4 might be Oh, as it is described as having an octahedral shape according to VSEPR theory.
  • Another participant asserts that for a point group to be classified as Oh, all six substituents must be identical, which raises questions about the symmetry of XeO2F4.
  • Concerns are raised regarding the presence of C3 axes in octahedral symmetry, which are not accounted for in the initial D4h proposal.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the appropriate point group for XeO2F4, with some supporting D4h and others suggesting Oh. The discussion remains unresolved, with no consensus reached on the correct classification.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the importance of symmetry elements in determining point groups, but there is ambiguity regarding the requirements for substituent identity in octahedral symmetry and the implications of C3 axes.

ochemnerd
Messages
2
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


Had this question on a test today and now I'm having second thoughts. We were asked to assign the point group of symmetry for the compound XeO2F4.

Homework Equations


None

The Attempt at a Solution


I had initially thought that it fell under D4h because it contains 1 C4 axis, 4 C2 axes, 4 σv planes and 1 σh plane. I know that the compound XeF4 is D4h and my rationale for assigning D4h to XeO2F4 was that it is identical to XeF4 except that instead of 2 lone pairs on the Xe there are 2 double bonded O's.

However, is the correct assignment for XeO2F4 octahedron (Oh)? It is a octahedral shape according to VSEPR but I'm not sure if all 6 substituents on the central atom have to be identical on Oh point groups.

Can someone please shed some light on this?

Cheers!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
ochemnerd said:

Homework Statement


Had this question on a test today and now I'm having second thoughts. We were asked to assign the point group of symmetry for the compound XeO2F4.

Homework Equations


None


The Attempt at a Solution


I had initially thought that it fell under D4h because it contains 1 C4 axis, 4 C2 axes, 4 σv planes and 1 σh plane. I know that the compound XeF4 is D4h and my rationale for assigning D4h to XeO2F4 was that it is identical to XeF4 except that instead of 2 lone pairs on the Xe there are 2 double bonded O's.

However, is the correct assignment for XeO2F4 octahedron (Oh)? It is a octahedral shape according to VSEPR but I'm not sure if all 6 substituents on the central atom have to be identical on Oh point groups.

Can someone please shed some light on this?

Cheers!

yes, all 6 have to be the same. Don't forget there are also C3 axes in octahedral symmetry, which are not present in your proposed structure.
 
Thanks for the clarification, sjb-2812!
I fail to see where the C3 axes would be though in a molecule of octahedral symmetry...
 

Similar threads

Graduate What is the other axis in molecule XeF4's D4h character table?
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
9K
Algorithm for creating unique groups of elements
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Mathematica This Week's Finds in Mathematical Physics (Week 230)
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
Mathematica This Week's Finds in Mathematical Physics (Week 230)
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
4K