Question

Why does the following reaction occur? 

XeO^4-₆ (aq) + 2F^- (aq) + 6H⁺ (aq) → XeO₃(s) + F₂(g) + 3H₂O(I) 

What conclusion about the compound Na₄XeO₆ (of which XeO^4-₆ is a part) can be drawn from the reaction?

Answer 1

The balanced equation along with O.N. of the elements above their symbols will be as:

In the equation the, O.N. of Xe decreases from + 8 in XeO^4-₆ to + 6 in XeO₃ while that of F increases from – 1 in F^- to 0 in F₂ . 

Therefore, XeO^4-₆ is reduced while F^- is oxidised. This reaction occurs because Na₄ XeO₆ (0r XeO₆^4-) is stronger oxidising agent than F₂ .