Bartlett

Definition

Bartlett is known for his groundbreaking work in noble gas chemistry, particularly the first successful synthesis of a xenon compound. His research demonstrated that noble gases can form chemical compounds under specific conditions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Bartlett's work led to the synthesis of xenon hexafluoroplatinate (XePtF_6) in 1962.
2. He hypothesized that xenon could react with platinum hexafluoride (PtF_6) due to its similar ionization energy to molecular oxygen ($O_2$).
3. This discovery challenged the previously held belief that noble gases are completely inert and do not form compounds.
4. Bartlett's experiment opened the door for the synthesis of other noble gas compounds, including those involving krypton and radon.
5. His research has implications for understanding chemical bonding and the reactivity of elements previously considered unreactive.

Review Questions

Related terms

Xenon Hexafluoroplatinate: A compound synthesized by Neil Bartlett, marked as one of the first known noble gas compounds.

Ionization Energy:

The amount of energy required to remove an electron from an atom or molecule.

$PtF_6$: $Platinum(\text{VI})$ fluoride, a highly reactive compound used by Bartlett in his experiments with xenon.