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Antimony pentafluoride facts for kids

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Antimony(V)fluroide liquid phase
Antimony(V) fluoride liquid phase.

Antimony pentafluoride is a special chemical. It is also known as antimony(V) fluoride. Its chemical formula is SbF5. This means it has one antimony atom connected to five fluorine atoms. The antimony part of this chemical has a +5 charge, which makes it very reactive.

What it is Like

Antimony pentafluoride looks like a thick, clear liquid. It is a very strong chemical that reacts easily with many other things. We call it a powerful "oxidizing agent." This means it can take electrons from other chemicals. It can even make oxygen react in a way that oxygen usually doesn't. It can also create very strong acids when mixed with hydrofluoric acid. This chemical was important in early experiments to make fluorine.

How it is Made

Scientists make antimony pentafluoride by mixing antimony pentoxide or antimony pentachloride with hydrofluoric acid. It can also be made by reacting antimony trifluoride with fluorine.

What it is Used For

Antimony pentafluoride is mainly used to create extremely strong acids. These acids are called "superacids."

Staying Safe

Antimony pentafluoride reacts with most other chemicals. It is extremely dangerous and can cause severe damage if it touches skin or other materials. Always handle it with extreme care.

Related pages

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Pentafluoruro de antimonio para niños

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