Bismuth(V) fluoride facts for kids
Bismuth(V) fluoride, also known as bismuth pentafluoride, is a special chemical compound. Its chemical formula is BiF5. This means it's made of one bismuth atom and five fluorine atoms joined together. The bismuth in this compound has a special electrical charge, called an oxidation state, of +5.
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What is Bismuth(V) Fluoride Like?
Bismuth(V) fluoride is a white solid that looks like tiny crystals. It is a very strong chemical that can take electrons from other substances. We call this an oxidizing agent. It is also a fluorinating agent, which means it can add fluorine atoms to other chemicals.
This compound reacts strongly with water, creating ozone and oxygen difluoride. It also reacts with chemicals like iodine and sulfur even at room temperature. If you heat it above 50°C (122°F), it reacts with substances like paraffin (found in candles) to make new compounds called fluorocarbons. When heated to 180°C (356°F), it reacts with chlorine to form chlorine monofluoride and with bromine to form bromine trifluoride.
How is it Made?
Scientists make bismuth(V) fluoride in a few ways. One way is by mixing bismuth(III) fluoride with fluorine gas at a very high temperature. Another method involves reacting bismuth(III) fluoride with chlorine trifluoride.
What is it Used For?
Bismuth(V) fluoride is mainly used as a fluorinating agent. This means it helps add fluorine atoms to other chemicals, which is important for making many different substances.
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See also
In Spanish: Fluoruro de bismuto(V) para niños
