The formation of `O_(2)^(+)[PtF_(6)]^(-)` is the basis for the formation of xenon fluorides. This is because:

Options

A. `O_(2)` and Xe have comparable sizes
B. Both `O_(2)` and Xe are gases
C. `O_(2)` and Xe have comparable ionisation energies
D. `O_(2)` and Xe have comparable electronegativities

Answer

A, C

Explanation

(i) The first ionisation energy of xenon (1,170 k J `mol^(-1)`) is quite close to that of dioxygen (1,180 kJ `mol^(-1)`). (ii) The molecular diameters of xenon and dioxygen are almost identical (400 pm). Based on the above similarities barlett (who prepared `O^(2+)[PtF_(6)]^(-)` compound) suggested that since oxygen combines with `PtF_(6)`, so xenon should also form similar compound with `PtF_(6)`.