Q30 / 150 · MHT CET 2026 (16 April Shift 2) · Chemistry
What is oxidation state of chlorine in chlorous acid?
- A$+2$
- B$+4$
- Correct answerC$+3$
- D$+7$
Solution
The chemical formula of chlorous acid is $HClO_2$.
Let the oxidation state of chlorine be $x$.
The oxidation state of hydrogen is $+1$ and that of oxygen is $-2$.
Since the molecule is neutral, the sum of the oxidation states of all atoms is zero.
$+1 + x + 2(-2) = 0$
$1 + x - 4 = 0$
$x - 3 = 0$
$x = +3$
The oxidation state of chlorine in chlorous acid is $+3$.
Answer: $+3$
Let the oxidation state of chlorine be $x$.
The oxidation state of hydrogen is $+1$ and that of oxygen is $-2$.
Since the molecule is neutral, the sum of the oxidation states of all atoms is zero.
$+1 + x + 2(-2) = 0$
$1 + x - 4 = 0$
$x - 3 = 0$
$x = +3$
The oxidation state of chlorine in chlorous acid is $+3$.
Answer: $+3$
Hence, the correct answer is option: 'C'.