Which fundamental realization prompted Neil Bartlett to successfully prepare the first noble gas com — p Block Elements Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

Neil Bartlett first prepared $O_2^+[PtF_6]^-$. He realized that the first ionization enthalpy of $O_2$ ($1175 \text{ kJ mol}^{-1}$) is almost identical to that of Xenon ($1170 \text{ kJ mol}^{-1}$). This inspired him to react $Xe$ with $PtF_6$, successfully forming the red compound $Xe^+[PtF_6]^-$.