Textbook Question
Account for each of the following observations.
b. SF4 exists, but OF4 does not.
Ch.22 - The Main Group Elements
Chapter 22, Problem 143
Fuming sulfuric acid is formed when sulfur trioxide dissolves in anhydrous sulfuric acid to form H2S2O7. Propose a structure for H2S2O7, which contains an S - O - S linkage.
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Understand the components of the molecule H2S2O7. It consists of two sulfur atoms, seven oxygen atoms, and two hydrogen atoms.
Step 2: Recognize that the molecule contains an S-O-S linkage, which means the two sulfur atoms are connected by an oxygen atom.
Step 3: Recall that sulfuric acid (H2SO4) has a tetrahedral structure around the sulfur atom, with two hydroxyl groups (OH) and two double-bonded oxygen atoms.
Step 4: Consider that in H2S2O7, one of the hydroxyl groups from each sulfuric acid molecule is replaced by an oxygen atom that links the two sulfur atoms, forming the S-O-S linkage.
Step 5: Arrange the remaining oxygen atoms to satisfy the valency of sulfur, ensuring each sulfur atom is bonded to four oxygen atoms, two of which are double-bonded, and the molecule has two hydroxyl groups.
Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Sulfur Trioxide (SO3)
Sulfur trioxide is a chemical compound consisting of one sulfur atom bonded to three oxygen atoms. It is a key precursor in the production of sulfuric acid and can react with water to form sulfuric acid. In the context of fuming sulfuric acid, SO3 acts as a strong dehydrating agent and is crucial for understanding the formation of H2S2O7.
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Anhydrous Sulfuric Acid
Anhydrous sulfuric acid is sulfuric acid that contains no water. It is a highly concentrated form of sulfuric acid that can react with sulfur trioxide to produce pyrosulfuric acid (H2S2O7). Understanding its properties and reactivity is essential for grasping how H2S2O7 is formed and its structural characteristics.
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S - O - S Linkage
The S - O - S linkage refers to a bond between two sulfur atoms through an oxygen atom, which is a characteristic feature of certain sulfur oxoacids. In H2S2O7, this linkage is significant as it influences the compound's structure and reactivity. Recognizing this linkage helps in visualizing the molecular geometry and understanding the chemical behavior of the compound.
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