Question

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

KBrO₃

Answer 1

In the compound KBrO₃:

The oxidation state of potassium (K) is +1.

The oxidation state of oxygen (O) is –2.

Let the oxidation state of Br be x.

Since the overall compound is neutral, the sum of oxidation states = 0

(+1 for K) + (oxidation state of Br) + 3 × (−2 for O) = 0

1 + x + 3(−2) = 0

1 + x − 6 = 0

x − 5 = 0

⇒ x = +5

∴ The oxidation state of halogen in KBrO₃ is +5.