Chemistry 2004 JAMB Past Questions - Question 22: The oxidation state of chlorine in HCLO is

Correct Answer

C

Explanation

+ + = 0(+1) + cl + 4 (- 2) = 0, + 1 + cl - 8 = 0cl = 8 - 1 = + 7
In the compound HClO (hypochlorous acid), chlorine (Cl) exhibits different oxidation states. To determine the oxidation state of an element in a compound, you can follow some general rules:

1. The oxidation state of hydrogen (H) is usually +1.
2. The oxidation state of oxygen (O) is typically -2 in most compounds.
3. The sum of oxidation states in a molecule is equal to its overall charge.

In HClO, let x be the oxidation state of chlorine. The oxidation states of hydrogen and oxygen are +1 and -2, respectively. The sum of the oxidation states must equal the overall charge of the molecule.

So, the equation is:

\[ x + 1 + (-2) = 0 \]

Solving for x:

\[ x - 1 = 0 \]

\[ x = +1 \]

Therefore, in HClO, chlorine has an oxidation state of +1.