In the previous problem, the reaction to produce XeF₂ occurs photochemically at room temperature. However, to produce XeF₄(s), higher temperature and pressure are required. Production of XeF₆ requires even higher pressures. Discuss the differences in reaction conditions for these three reactions in terms of activation energy and collision theory.

Previous problem

According to an article published in 1966 in the Journal of Chemical Education, xenon reacts photochemically with fluorine at room temperature (298 K) to produce XeF₂. A portion of a table showing ratios of gases in the reaction vessel for four experiments is reproduced below. (Assume that atmospheric pressure is exactly 1 atm.) The reaction is as shown:

Transcribed Image Text:

Xe(g) + F₂(g) → XeF₂(s) 1 Experiment Volume of Xe, in mL at atmospheric pressure Volume of F2, in mL at atmospheric pressure 300. 271 2 350. 260 3 400. 262 450. 183