Question

How many lone pairs of electrons are present on each oxygen atom in any oxy acids of chlorine?

• A. 0
• B. 3
• C. 1
• D. 2

Hint:

Oxygen atoms in oxy acids of chlorine typically have two lone pairs of electrons.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding oxy acids of chlorine.
In oxy acids of chlorine, such as hypochlorous acid (HOCl) or chloric acid (HClO₃), each oxygen atom typically has two lone pairs of electrons. This is because oxygen tends to form two bonds and retain two lone pairs of electrons.
Step 2: Analyzing the options.
(A) 0: Incorrect. Oxygen in oxy acids of chlorine always has lone pairs.
(B) 3: Incorrect. Oxygen in these acids does not have 3 lone pairs.
(C) 1: Incorrect. Oxygen in oxy acids generally has 2 lone pairs.
(D) 2: Correct — Each oxygen atom in oxy acids of chlorine has 2 lone pairs of electrons.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (D) 2, as each oxygen atom in oxy acids of chlorine has two lone pairs of electrons.