Question:

What is the oxidation number of Cl in \(\text{HOClO}_2\)?

Show Hint

Rewrite HOClO2 as HClO3 and balance the charges.
Updated On: Oct 1, 2026
  • \(+7\)
  • \(+5\)
  • \(+3\)
  • \(+1\)
Show Solution
collegedunia
Verified By Collegedunia

The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept
\(\text{HOClO}_2\) is the structural way of writing chloric acid, \(\text{HClO}_3\). Its atoms are one H, one Cl and three O.

Step 2: Key Formula or Approach
Sum of oxidation numbers = 0 for a neutral molecule. H is \(+1\) and O is \(-2\).

Step 3: Calculation
Let Cl be \(x\):
\[ (+1)+x+3(-2)=0 \]
\[ x=+5 \]

Step 4: Check the other options
The value +7 belongs to perchloric acid \(\text{HClO}_4\). The value +3 belongs to chlorous acid \(\text{HClO}_2\), and +1 belongs to hypochlorous acid, HOCl. Our molecule has three oxygen atoms, so chlorine is +5, option (B).

Final Answer:
Chlorine in \(\text{HOClO}_2\) has oxidation number +5, option (B). \[ \boxed{+5} \]
Was this answer helpful?
0
0