The first ionization energy of the oxygen molecule is the energy required for the following process: $$ \mathrm{O}_{2}(g) \longrightarrow \mathrm{O}_{2}{ }^{+}(g)+\mathrm{e}^{-} $$ The energy needed for this process is \(1175 \mathrm{~kJ} / \mathrm{mol}\), very similar to the first ionization energy of Xe. Would you expect \(\mathrm{O}_{2}\) to react with \(\mathrm{F}_{2}\) ? If so, suggest a product or products of this reaction.

Short Answer

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O2 can react with F2 due to the reactivity from double bonds in O2 and the high electronegativity of F2. The product of this reaction is Oxygen Difluoride (OF2), as shown in the chemical equation: \( O_2(g) + 2F_2(g) \longrightarrow 2OF_2(g) \).

Step by step solution

01

Understand the ionization energies and reactivity

Ionization energy is the amount of energy required to remove an electron from an atom or molecule. High ionization energies indicate that the electron is strongly bound and the element is less likely to react. In this case, the ionization energy of O2 and Xe is almost similar. Xe, being a noble gas, has a fully occupied electron orbital which makes it generally unreactive due to high ionization energy. However, oxygen molecule (O2) can be reactive because they form double bonds, seeking other elements to complete their respective electron shells.
02

Consider the reactivity of fluorine

Fluorine (F) is one of the most electronegative and reactive nonmetals in the periodic table. It seeks electrons to complete its electron shell, readily forming bonds with other elements.
03

Evaluate the reaction between O2 and F2

Based on the reactivity of oxygen and fluorine molecules, it would be reasonable to expect that O2 can react with F2. O2, though it has a high ionization energy similar to Xe, is still reactive because of its double bonds. F2, being highly reactive, can form bonds with O2, leading to the formation of new products.
04

Suggest a product or products of this reaction

When O2 reacts with F2, the resulting product is Oxygen Difluoride (OF2), where each oxygen atom takes up two fluorine atoms. The chemical equation for the reaction: \[ O_2(g) + 2F_2(g) \longrightarrow 2OF_2(g) \] This is because oxygen is able to share its electrons with fluorine atoms, forming two single covalent bonds and satisfying their respective electron shell requirements.

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