Question:

How many peroxy linkages are present in \(CrO_5\)?

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Drawing the structure is the only way to avoid the mistake of assuming Chromium is in the $+10$ state, which is impossible.
Updated On: Apr 29, 2026
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Concept: Chromium pentoxide (\(CrO_5\)) has a unique "butterfly" structure. To determine the number of peroxy linkages, we must look at the connectivity between oxygen atoms.

Step 1:
Visualize the structure.
In \(CrO_5\), there is one central Chromium atom.
• One oxygen atom is connected to Cr via a double bond (\(Cr=O\)).
• The other four oxygen atoms form two peroxy groups (\(O-O\)).

Step 2:
Count the linkages.
A peroxy linkage is an \(O-O\) single bond. In the butterfly structure, each "wing" is composed of a peroxy group bonded to the central Chromium. Since there are two such wings, there are 2 peroxy linkages.

Step 3:
Verify Oxidation State.
Using the peroxy links (\(O\) in \(-1\) state) and the oxo link (\(O\) in \(-2\) state): \[ x + 4(-1) + 1(-2) = 0 \Rightarrow x = +6 \] This matches the maximum oxidation state for Chromium.
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