Question

Can some atoms exceed the limits of the octet rule in bonding? If so, give an example.

Answer 1

Answer:

Yes. Example: Sulfur hexafluoride (SF₆) molecule

Explanation:

According to the octet rule, elements tend to form chemical bonds in order to have 8 electrons in their valence shell and gain the stable s²p⁶ electronic configuration.

However, this rule is generally followed by main group elements only.

Exception: SF₆ molecule

In this molecule, six fluorine atoms are attached to the central sulfur atom by single covalent bonds.

Each fluorine atom has 8 electrons in their valence shells. Thus, it follows the octet rule.

Whereas, there are 12 electrons around the central sulfur atom in the SF₆ molecule. Therefore, sulfur does not follow the octet rule.

Therefore, the SF₆ molecule is known as a hypervalent molecule or expanded-valence molecule.