Introduction

Chemical compounds often involve the complex bonding patterns of elements, particularly when dealing with transition metals or highly reactive elements such as Xenon. One such intriguing compound is BaXeO6, where the oxidation state of Xenon (Xe) can be confusing. This article aims to provide a clear understanding of the oxidation number of Xe in BaXeO6, including the mathematical calculations involved and the presence of a per-oxy linkage that modifies the standard bonding state.

Mathematical Calculation of Oxidation Number of Xe in BaXeO6

Let's begin by understanding the basic principles of oxidation numbers. In BaXeO6, barium (Ba) is an alkaline-earth metal, and we know that its oxidation number is 2. Oxygen (O) has a typical oxidation number of -2. Thus, in the compound, the total contribution of the oxygen atoms to the charge is 6 x -2 -12, leading to:

2 - 12 -10

To balance this, we need to assign the oxidation number of Xe. Hence, the oxidation number of Xe would be 10. The recheck 2 - 12 10 0 confirms that the compound is electrically neutral, as expected.

Doubts and Complex Bonding Patterns

However, it is important to note that while the mathematical calculation yields Xe with an oxidation number of 10, several complications arise due to the specific bonding structure of BaXeO6. The typical -2 oxidation state of oxygen may not apply here, thanks to a phenomenon known as per-oxy linkage.

The presence of per-oxy oxygen (-1 oxidation state) due to a double bond oxygen atom can significantly alter the typical oxidation state of oxygen. This means that two out of the six oxygen atoms in BaXeO6 exhibit a -1 oxidation state rather than -2. Taking this into account, we need to adjust our calculation as follows:

2x 4(-1) - 2(-2) 0

This simplifies to:

2x - 4 4 0

Which can be solved to:

2x 0

And

x 8

Therefore, the correct oxidation number of Xe in BaXeO6 is 8. This more accurately reflects the bonding and structural nature of the compound, indicating the presence of a per-oxy linkage.

Conclusion

The calculation of the oxidation number of Xe in BaXeO6 is a good example of how complex bonding patterns can challenge our understanding of traditional oxidation number rules. While the initial mathematical approach yields an oxidation number of 10, the presence of per-oxy linkage in the compound adjusts this to 8, leading to a more accurate understanding of the compound's chemistry.

For further discussion or any doubts regarding this topic, please feel free to comment below.