Identify the incorrect statement, regarding the molecule XeO4:
- XeO4 molecule is square planar.
- There are four p -d bonds.
- There are four sp3-p, bonds.
- XeO4 molecule is tetrahedral.
Answer
(1) XeO4 molecule is square planar.
Solution
In XeO4, Xe (oxidation state +8) forms four σ bonds and has no lone pair.
⇒ Hybridisation of Xe = sp3 ⇒ shape is tetrahedral (statement 4 correct).
Four σ bonds are formed by overlap of Xe sp3 hybrid orbitals with p orbitals of O ⇒ four sp3-p σ bonds (statement 3 correct).
The four π bonds are formed by sideways overlap of p orbitals of O with d orbitals of Xe ⇒ four p -d bonds (statement 2 correct).
∴ "XeO4 molecule is square planar" is incorrect.
Answer: (1)