Question

Which one of the following statements is not true in respect of properties of interhalogen compounds?

• A. They are all covalent compounds
• B. They are volatile solids or liquids except ClF
• C. $IF_5$ has square pyramidal structure
• D. They are all paramagnetic in nature
• E. $BrF_3$ is used in the preparation of $UF_6$ in the enrichment of $^{235}U$

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

Interhalogen compounds are covalent molecules. With the exception of $ClF$ (which is a gas at $298 \,K$ ), all are volatile solids or liquids. They are diamagnetic in nature. The shape of $IF _{5}$ is square pyramidal. These compounds are very useful flourinating agents. e.g., $ClF _{3}$ and $BrF _{3}$ are used for production of $UF _{6}$ in the enrichment of ${ }^{235} U$.