Question

Which of the following pairs of compounds is isoelectronic and isostructural?

• A. \( TeI_2, XeF_2 \)
• B. \( IBr_2^-, XeF_2 \)
• C. \( IF_5, XeF_5 \)
• D. \( BeCl_2, XeF_2 \)

Hint:

Linear species like \( IBr_2^- \) and \( XeF_2 \) follow the VSEPR theory, having three lone pairs and two bonding pairs on the central atom.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding isoelectronic and isostructural concepts. 
- Isoelectronic species have the same total number of electrons. 
- Isostructural species have the same shape and hybridization. 
Step 2: Analyzing the given pairs. 
- \( IBr_2^- \) and \( XeF_2 \) both have 22 valence electrons. 
- Both species have a linear structure due to sp\(^3\)d hybridization with three lone pairs.