explain on basis of structure why SF6 is less reactive than PCl5?

Dear Student, 

SF₆ has octahedral structure. All S-F bonds are equal in length and are equal in strength. So, SF₆ is stable.

But in PCl₅, shape is trigonal bipyramidal. So, two of P-Cl bonds are axial and are more in length than the other three equatorial bonds. These axial bonds are weaker and break easily. Because of this, PCl₅ is reactive.



Regards