Question:

Oxidation number of potassium in \( K_{2}O \), \( K_{2}O_{2} \) and \( KO_{2} \), respectively, is:

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Don't let the complex oxygen states (peroxides and superoxides) confuse you. In almost every chemical environment, Group 1 metals (Li, Na, K, Rb, Cs) are strictly \(+1\). It is the oxidation state of oxygen that varies to balance the charge.
Updated On: Apr 22, 2026
  • \(+2\), \(+1\) and \(+\frac{1}{2}\)
  • \(+1\), \(+1\) and \(+1\)
  • \(+1\), \(+4\) and \(+2\)
  • \(+1\), \(+2\) and \(+4\)
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Potassium (K) is an alkali metal belonging to Group 1 of the periodic table. Alkali metals have a single valence electron in their outermost shell, which they lose very easily to achieve a stable noble gas configuration.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

1. Alkali metals, including potassium, always exhibit an oxidation state of \(+1\) in their compounds.
2. In \(K_2O\) (Potassium oxide), oxygen is in the \(-2\) state. Calculation: \(2(x) + (-2) = 0 \implies x = +1\).
3. In \(K_2O_2\) (Potassium peroxide), oxygen is in the \(-1\) state (peroxide ion \(O_2^{2-}\)). Calculation: \(2(x) + 2(-1) = 0 \implies x = +1\).
4. In \(KO_2\) (Potassium superoxide), oxygen is in the \(-1/2\) state (superoxide ion \(O_2^{-}\)). Calculation: \(x + 2(-1/2) = 0 \implies x = +1\).

Step 3: Final Answer

The oxidation number of potassium remains \(+1\) in all three compounds.
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