Question

Find the oxidation state of the halogen in the following compound:

ClO₂

Answer 1

Let the oxidation state of Cl be x.

In ClO₂:

Oxygen (O) has a usual oxidation state of –2.

There are 2 oxygen atoms.

∴ Total contribution from oxygen = 2 × (−2) = −4

Since ClO₂ is a neutral molecule, the sum of oxidation states is 0.

Now apply the equation:

x + 2(−2) = 0

x − 4 = 0

x = +4

∴ The oxidation state of halogen in ClO₂ is +4.