Question:

Given below are two statements: Statement I: The formation of \([O_2]^+[PtF_6]^-\) is the basis for the formation of xenon fluorides. Statement II: \(O_2\) and Xe have almost the same first ionization enthalpies.

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The discovery of xenon compounds began with Bartlett's reaction: \[ O_2 + PtF_6 \rightarrow [O_2]^+[PtF_6]^- \] Because \(O_2\) and Xe have similar ionization energies, xenon chemistry was born.
Updated On: Jun 10, 2026
  • Both Statements I and II are correct
  • Statement I is correct, but Statement II is not correct
  • Statement I is not correct, but Statement II is correct
  • Both Statements I and II are not correct
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Concept: The discovery of noble gas compounds originated from Neil Bartlett's observation that oxygen could be oxidized by platinum hexafluoride. This led to the realization that xenon, having a similar ionization enthalpy, might also form compounds with fluorine and platinum hexafluoride. This was a landmark discovery because noble gases were previously considered completely inert.

Step 1: Analyse Statement I Bartlett observed: \[ O_2 + PtF_6 \rightarrow [O_2]^+[PtF_6]^- \] Since xenon possesses a similar ionization energy, he predicted: \[ Xe + PtF_6 \rightarrow [Xe]^+[PtF_6]^- \] This ultimately led to the synthesis of xenon compounds. Hence Statement I is correct. \[ \boxed{\text{Statement I is correct}} \]

Step 2: Analyse Statement II First ionization enthalpies: \[ IE_1(Xe)\approx1170\ \text{kJ mol}^{-1} \] \[ IE_1(O_2)\approx1175\ \text{kJ mol}^{-1} \] These values are extremely close. Therefore Statement II is also correct. \[ \boxed{\text{Statement II is correct}} \]

Step 3: Final conclusion Since both statements are true, \[ \boxed{\text{Both Statements I and II are correct}} \] Hence \[ \boxed{\text{Option (A)}} \]
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