Question

Whether the geometry of $XeF_2$ is linear or non-linear? Explain.

Answer 1

In ${XeF}_2$, two bonding and three non-bonding electron pairs are present, i.e., xenon atom undergoes $s p^3 d$ hybridization.

Trigonal bipyramid configuration comes into existence. Non-bonding electron pairs always occupy the equatorial positions and thus, fluorine atoms occupy the axial positions.

Hence, ${F}-{Xe}-{F}$ molecule is linear.