Question

Which of The Following Molecule Is Theoretically Not Possible?

• A. ${\mathrm{OF}}_2$
• B. ${\mathrm{OF}}_4$
• C. ${\mathrm{SF}}_4$
• D. ${\mathrm{O}}_2{\mathrm{F}}_2$

Answer 1

The correct option is B

${\mathrm{OF}}_4$

The explanation for the correct option

(B) ${\mathrm{OF}}_4$

• In ${\mathrm{OF}}_4$, the oxidation state of oxygen (O) is +4, which is not possible for oxygen.
• Oxygen (O) can exhibit possible oxidation states of +2,+1,-1,-2.
• so, ${\mathrm{OF}}_4$is not possible.

The explanation for the incorrect options

(A) ${\mathrm{OF}}_2$has an oxidation state of oxygen as +2 in this case which is possible.

(C) ${\mathrm{SF}}_4$, in this case, oxygen sulfur has an oxidation state of +4 which is also possible.

(D) ${\mathrm{O}}_2{\mathrm{F}}_2$, in this case, oxygen show a +1 oxidation state which is also possible.

Hence the correct option is (B) ${\mathrm{OF}}_4$.