Point Group D4h: XeF4 Square Planar

Build xenon tetrafluoride, XeF₄, with the Indigo® 68821W point group molecular model kit to demonstrate D_4h point group symmetry, square planar geometry, and the spectroscopic consequences of centrosymmetric molecules. Ideal for symmetry, group theory, and inorganic chemistry courses.

The Indigo® 68821W XeF₄ D_4h point group model shows symmetry elements: identity operation E; main axis C₄ axis 90^o to the molecular plane; four molecular plane C₂ axes; a horizontal mirror plane (σ_h); two vertical mirror planes (σ_v); two dihedral mirror planes (σ_d); an inversion center (i); and an S₄ improper rotation axis. XeF₄ square planar geometry occurs because two lone pairs occupy axial positions of an octahedral electron geometry, leaving four fluorines arranged in a plane. Other D_4h molecules include cyclobutadiene and square planar transition metal complexes such as PtCl₄^2-.