Question

What is the oxidation state of chlorine atom in chloric acid?

• A. +3
• B. -1
• C. +5
• D. +1

Hint:

In oxoacids like chloric acid (HClO\(_3\)), the oxidation state of the central atom (chlorine) can often be determined by balancing the charges of hydrogen and oxygen atoms.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the oxidation state of chlorine.
In chloric acid (HClO\(_3\)), hydrogen has an oxidation state of +1, and oxygen typically has an oxidation state of -2. The overall charge of the molecule is 0. To find the oxidation state of chlorine, we can use the following equation: \[ 1 + x + 3(-2) = 0 \] Solving for \(x\), we get \(x = +5\). Thus, the oxidation state of chlorine in HClO\(_3\) is +5.

Step 2: Analyzing the options.
(A) +3: This is incorrect. The oxidation state of chlorine in HClO\(_3\) is +5, not +3.
(B) -1: This is incorrect. Chlorine cannot have an oxidation state of -1 in HClO\(_3\).
(C) +5: Correct — Chlorine has an oxidation state of +5 in chloric acid.
(D) +1: This is incorrect. Chlorine cannot have an oxidation state of +1 in HClO\(_3\).

Step 3: Conclusion.
The oxidation state of chlorine in chloric acid is (C) +5.