Question

Why does the following reaction occur? 

XeO₆^4-_(aq) + 2F^– _(aq) + 6H+_(aq) → XeO_3(g) + F_2(g) + 3H₂O_(l) 

What conclusion about the compound Na₄XeO₆ (of which XeO₆^4- is a part) can be drawn from the reaction.

Answer 1

The given reaction occurs because  XeO₆^4- oxidises F^- and F^-

 

reduces  XeO₆^4-  In this reaction, the oxidation number (O.N.) of Xe decreases from +8 in XeO₆^4- to +6 in XeO₃ and the O.N. of F increases from –1 in F^– to O in F². 

Hence, we can conclude that Na₄XeO₆ is a stronger oxidising agent than F^– .