Question:

In which of the following compound oxygen is in -1 oxidation state?

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Oxygen oxidation states to remember:
1. Normal oxides = -2.
2. Peroxides (like \(H_2O_2\), \(Na_2O_2\)) = -1.
3. Superoxides (like \(KO_2\)) = -1/2.
4. With Fluorine (\(OF_2\)) = +2.
Updated On: Apr 29, 2026
  • Water
  • Manganese dioxide
  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Carbon dioxide
  • Potassium nitrate
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Oxidation state (or number) represents the degree of oxidation of an atom in a chemical compound.
Oxygen usually has an oxidation state of -2 in its compounds.
However, in peroxides, oxygen atoms are linked to each other (\(O-O\)), and each oxygen has an oxidation state of -1.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:

Let's calculate the oxidation state of O in each option:
- Water (\(H_2O\)): \(2(+1) + x = 0 \Rightarrow x = -2\).
- Manganese dioxide (\(MnO_2\)): \(+4 + 2x = 0 \Rightarrow x = -2\).
- Hydrogen peroxide (\(H_2O_2\)): \(2(+1) + 2x = 0 \Rightarrow 2x = -2 \Rightarrow x = -1\).
- Carbon dioxide (\(CO_2\)): \(+4 + 2x = 0 \Rightarrow x = -2\).
- Potassium nitrate (\(KNO_3\)): Oxygen is in a nitrate ion where it is -2.

Step 4: Final Answer:

In hydrogen peroxide (\(H_2O_2\)), oxygen is in the -1 oxidation state.
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