In which compound does Cr exhibit greater non-metallic behavior, Cr2 or CrF6? Explain your answer.

1 answer

In Cr2 (chromium(II)), chromium has a +2 oxidation state, which means it has lost two electrons and is behaving like a metal. Metallic behavior is characterized by elements or compounds that readily lose electrons to form positive ions.

In CrF6 (chromium(VI) fluoride), chromium has a +6 oxidation state, which means it has gained six electrons and is behaving like a non-metal. Non-metallic behavior is characterized by elements or compounds that tend to gain electrons to form negative ions.

Therefore, in terms of non-metallic behavior, Cr exhibits greater non-metallic behavior in CrF6 compared to Cr2.