how do we know that in XeF4, the lone pairs are opposite to each other

XeF4 has square planar structure and its lone pairs are opposite to each other so as to avoid lone pair-lone pair repulsion

HELLO THERE!

 

If you calculate the Steric number of XeF₄, we find it to be 6.

The number of bond pairs = 4 (since there are only four F atoms attached to Xe).

Number of lone pairs = Steric number – Number of bond pairs = 2

 

Hybridisation = sp³d², so geometry is Square Planar. Now, the lone pairs are placed exactly opposite to each other to increase the stability of the molecule. Each molecule wants to be stable. Lone pair-lone pair repulsion / Lone-pair bond pair repulsion decreases stability. Thus, the lone pairs are located opposite to each other to decrease these repulsions and thus maintain stability.

 

Thanks!