Chapter 4, Problem 4.85CP

(a)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The past thought that noble gases not form bonds has to be explained.

Concept Introduction:

Atoms shares electrons each other in order to achieve octet electronic configuration or noble electronic configuration. The sharing of electrons or transfer of electrons between atoms causes the bonding between atoms.

Noble gases have octet electronic configurations.

(b)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The Lewis structure of $Xe{F}_4$ is to be drawn and the number of electrons clouds present on the central atom is to be determined.

Concept Introduction:

Lone pairs are represented in Lewis structures which represents lines for the bonding between atoms of a molecule and the dots for the lone pairs of electrons that may exist in the molecule.

Valence electrons of xenon and fluorine are 8 and 7 respectively.

Electron clouds are electron pairs (includes lone pair and bond pair).

(c)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The nature of $Xe-F$ bond has to be explained.

Concept introduction:

Ionic bond takes place between a metal and a nonmetal where ions having opposite charges are held by electrostatic attraction. So it is an ionic bond.

Covalent bond is formed when electrons are shared between atoms to form a bond. When the electronegativity between two atoms is similar, sharing of electron in the bond is equal and is called nonpolar molecules. So it is a covalent bond.