Ruthenium pentafluoride

Ruthenium pentafluoride is a chemical compound with the formula RuF₅. It is one of the higher fluorides of ruthenium, a transition metal in the platinum group of the periodic table. Ruthenium pentafluoride is notable for its rarity, as well as its physical and chemical properties, which are of interest in the field of inorganic chemistry.

Properties

Ruthenium pentafluoride is a highly reactive, volatile solid. It is one of the few known pentafluorides of the transition metals, exhibiting the ability of ruthenium to achieve a high oxidation state. In this compound, ruthenium is in the +5 oxidation state. The compound typically exists as a dark brown or black solid under standard conditions of temperature and pressure.

The molecule of ruthenium pentafluoride is expected to have a square pyramidal geometry, according to VSEPR theory, with ruthenium at the center. This geometry is consistent with the presence of five fluorine atoms bonded to a central ruthenium atom, with four fluorines at the base and one at the apex of the pyramid.

Synthesis

Ruthenium pentafluoride can be synthesized through the direct reaction of elemental ruthenium with fluorine gas. This process requires high temperatures and the handling of fluorine gas, which is highly corrosive and dangerous. The synthesis of RuF₅ is typically carried out in specialized laboratories equipped to handle such reactive substances.

Reactivity and Uses

Due to its high reactivity, ruthenium pentafluoride is primarily of interest in academic research rather than practical applications. It is a powerful oxidizing agent and can react with a wide range of organic and inorganic compounds. Its reactivity with other substances is often used to study the chemical properties of ruthenium and the behavior of high oxidation state metal fluorides in general.

Safety

Ruthenium pentafluoride, like many fluorides of transition metals, is highly toxic and corrosive. It poses significant risks to health if inhaled or if it comes into contact with skin. Appropriate safety measures, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and specialized ventilation systems, are essential when handling this compound.

See Also

• Ruthenium
• Fluorine
• Oxidation state
• Inorganic chemistry
• Transition metal fluorides