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

Explanation

Neil Bartlett observed that `PtF_(6)` gives an ionic solid, `O^(+)PtF_(6)^(-),` when reacted with `O_(2)`.
`O_(2)(g)+PtF_(6)(g)toO_(2)^(+)[PtF_(6)]^(-)(s)`
In this reaction, `O_(2)` is oxidised to `O_(2)^(+)` by `PtF_(6)` . Bartlett thought `PtF_(6)` would also oxidise Xe to `Xe^(+)` since the first ionisation enthalpy of Xe `(1170 kJcdotmol^(-1))` is comparable with that of `O_(2)` molecule `(1175 kJcdotmo1^(-1))`.
This inspired Bartlett to carry out the reaction between Xe and `PtF_(6)` , which reacted readily to give a red solid of `Xe^(+)PtF_(6)^(-) : Xe + PtF_(6)overset(278K)toXe^(+)[PtF_(6)]^(-)`