Question:easy

Which of the following noble gases is the most reactive and forms the maximum number of compounds?

Show Hint

Reactivity in noble gases directly correlates inversely with ionization energy. The larger the atom (like Kr and Xe), the more easily it can be forced to share its electrons with highly electronegative atoms like F and O.
Updated On: Jun 15, 2026
  • Helium
  • Neon
  • Argon
  • Xenon
Show Solution

The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Frame the question.
Among Helium, Neon, Argon, and Xenon we want the noble gas that is most reactive and forms the largest set of compounds.
Step 2: Recall why noble gases are inert.
Their valence shells are completely filled ($ns^2np^6$, or $1s^2$ for He), so they have little urge to gain, lose, or share electrons.
Step 3: Track the trend down the group.
Going down from Helium toward Radon, atomic size grows and ionization enthalpy falls. The outer electrons get held more loosely, so reactivity rises down the group.
Step 4: Compare the four options.
Of Helium, Neon, Argon, and Xenon, Xenon sits lowest, so it has the biggest atom and the smallest ionization enthalpy. Helium, Neon, and Argon are essentially unreactive.
Step 5: Back it up with chemistry.
Xenon's ease of losing electrons let Neil Bartlett make the first noble gas compound $\text{XePtF}_6$, and Xenon readily forms $\text{XeF}_2$, $\text{XeF}_4$, $\text{XeF}_6$, $\text{XeO}_3$, and more with fluorine and oxygen.
Step 6: Conclude.
Xenon is the most reactive and forms the most compounds, which is option (D).
\[ \boxed{\text{Xenon}} \]
Was this answer helpful?
0