1.

What inspired N. Bartlett for carrying out reaction between Xe and PtF_(6) ?

Answer»

Solution :Neil Bartlett observed that `PtF_(6)` reacts with `O_(2)` to yield an IONIC solid, `O_(2)^(+) PtF_(6)^(-)`
`O_(2)(g) + PtF_(6)(g) rarr O_(2)^(+) [PtF_(6)]^(-)`
In this reaction, `O_(2)` gets oxidised to `O(2)^(+)` by `PtF_(6)`.
SINCE the first ionization enthalpy of Xe (1170 kJ `mol^(-)`) is fairly close to that of `O_(2)` molecule (1175 kJ `mol^(-)`), Bartlett thought that `PtF_(6)` should also OXIDISE Xe to `Xe^(+)`. This inspired Bartlett to CARRY out the reaction between Xe and `PtF_(6)`. When Xe and `PtF_(6)` were mixed, a rapid reaction took place and a red solid with the formula, `Xe^(+)PtF_(6)^(-)` was obtained.
`Xe + PtF_(6) overset(278 K) rarr Xe^(+)[PtF_(6)]^(-)`


Discussion

No Comment Found