To determine if species are isostructural, we need to compare their shapes using VSEPR theory.
- XeF2: The central Xenon atom has 8 valence electrons. It forms 2 σ bonds with Fluorine atoms and has 3 lone pairs. The steric number is 5 (sp3d hybridisation). To minimise repulsion, the 3 lone pairs occupy equatorial positions, resulting in a linear shape.
- TeF2: Tellurium has 6 valence electrons, forms 2 bonds, and has 2 lone pairs (sp3, bent shape).
- ICl2−: The central Iodine atom has 7 valence electrons plus 1 from the negative charge, totalling 8 valence electrons. It forms 2 σ bonds with Chlorine atoms and has 3 lone pairs. The steric number is 5 (sp3d hybridisation). Similar to XeF2, it has a linear shape.
- SbCl3: Antimony has 5 valence electrons, forms 3 bonds, and has 1 lone pair (sp3, trigonal pyramidal).
- BCl3: Boron has 3 valence electrons, forms 3 bonds, and has 0 lone pairs (sp2, trigonal planar).
Therefore, XeF2 is isostructural with ICl2−.