Question

What is the oxidation state of Chlorine in \(Cl_2O_7\)?

• A. +3
• B. +5
• C. +7
• D. -1

Hint:

Chlorine can exhibit multiple oxidation states such as \(-1, +1, +3, +5,\) and +7. In \(Cl_2O_7\), chlorine shows its highest oxidation state.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept: The oxidation state of an element represents the hypothetical charge that an atom would have if all bonds were completely ionic. To determine oxidation states, we use standard rules:
• Oxygen usually has oxidation state \(-2\).
• The sum of oxidation states in a neutral compound is zero.

Step 1: Assign oxidation states. Let the oxidation state of chlorine be \(x\). There are two chlorine atoms and seven oxygen atoms. Oxygen oxidation state = \(-2\)

Step 2: Write the equation. \[ 2x + 7(-2) = 0 \]

Step 3: Solve for \(x\). \[ 2x - 14 = 0 \] \[ 2x = 14 \] \[ x = +7 \] Thus, the oxidation state of chlorine in \(Cl_2O_7\) is +7.