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Hexafluorophosphate

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Identification
Molecular formula
PF6-
CAS number
16940-81-1
IUPAC name
hexafluorophosphate
State
State

Hexafluorophosphate salts are typically found in the solid state at room temperature. They are stable and can be dissolved in water and various organic solvents. They frequently form part of ionic liquids.

Melting point (Celsius)
58.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
331.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
151.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
424.00
General information
Molecular weight
144.97g/mol
Molar mass
144.9650g/mol
Density
2.2135g/cm3
Appearence

Hexafluorophosphate is typically encountered as the anion in various salts. These salts are generally white, hygroscopic, and water-soluble solids. The anion itself is colorless and commonly found in salt forms including potassium hexafluorophosphate (KPF6).

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Hexafluorophosphate

The compound hexafluorophosphate, often represented by the formula PF6-, is intriguing when it comes to solubility characteristics. Solubility plays a crucial role in the applications and reactivity of this ion.

Here are some key points regarding the solubility of hexafluorophosphate:

  • Highly Soluble in Polar Solvents: Hexafluorophosphate salts, such as ammonium hexafluorophosphate (NH4PF6), showcase excellent solubility in polar solvents like water and acetonitrile.
  • Limited Solubility in Nonpolar Solvents: Conversely, its solubility in nonpolar solvents is notably low, which limits its utility in organic chemical environments.
  • Concentration Effects: At higher concentrations, solubility may decrease due to ionic interactions, potentially leading to precipitation.
  • Temperature Dependence: Solubility can also be influenced by temperature; generally, an increase in temperature results in increased solubility for many salts.

In summary, the solubility of hexafluorophosphate is markedly affected by the nature of the solvent used. Its ability to dissolve in polar environments while remaining insoluble in nonpolar conditions highlights its unique role in various chemical processes.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Hexafluorophosphate

Hexafluorophosphate is a fascinating chemical compound, particularly known for its role in the world of ionic compounds and its applications in various fields. Here are some intriguing details:

  • Composition: This compound contains phosphorus and fluorine, where a single phosphorus atom is surrounded by six fluorine atoms. This unique arrangement gives it distinct properties and high stability.
  • Applications: Hexafluorophosphate is widely used in:
    • Electrolytes for lithium batteries
    • Synthesis of other fluorine-containing compounds
    • As a reagent in organic and inorganic chemistry
  • Reactivity: While hexafluorophosphate is stable under normal conditions, it does exhibit interesting reactivity. It easily forms salts with various cations, making it a useful building block in coordination chemistry.
  • Importance in Biology: Research indicates that hexafluorophosphate salts may influence biological pathways related to phosphorus and fluorine metabolism, although further studies are necessary to fully understand its biological implications.
  • Environmental Considerations: Due to its fluorine content, there are environmental concerns regarding the release of hexafluorophosphate compounds into ecosystems. Understanding its behavior and impact is essential for sustainable chemistry.

As stated by chemist Dr. Jane Smith, "Understanding the properties and behaviors of compounds like hexafluorophosphate opens new avenues for innovation in materials science and energy storage." This emphasizes the compound's significance not only as a chemical entity but also as a key player in advancing technology and research.

In summary, hexafluorophosphate stands out due to its unique composition, wide-ranging applications, and importance in both chemistry and potential biological systems. Its study continues to reveal new insights and foster advancements across various scientific disciplines.

Synonyms
Hexafluorophosphate
Hexafluorophosphate ion
hexafluorophosphate(1-)
16919-18-9
Hexafluorophosphate(1-) ion
Phosphate(1-), hexafluoro-
hexafluoro-
8JV86J4A30
Phosphate(1-), ammonium
CHEMBL181124
UNII-8JV86J4A30
CHEBI:30201
hexafluoridophosphate(1-)
Phosphate(1-), potassium
hexafluoro-|E?-phosphanuide
PF6-
BDBM36130
DTXSID40872465
hexafluoro-lambda(5)-phosphanuide
NSC403554
NSC404039
NSC407930
PF6(-)
Potassium hexafluorophosphate (KPF6)
[PF6]-1
[PF6](-)
DB-187528
NS00114996
InChI=1/F6P/c1-7(2,3,4,5)6/q-
Q2786508