Question

Oxygen exhibits −1 oxidation state in ______.

Options

• OF₂

• H₂O

• H₂O₂

• HCIO

Answer 1

Oxygen exhibits −1 oxidation state in H₂O₂.

Explanation:

Oxygen usually exhibits a −2 oxidation state, but in peroxides like H₂O₂ (hydrogen peroxide), it shows a −1 oxidation state. This is because in peroxides, the oxygen atoms are bonded to each other, sharing electrons equally, resulting in each oxygen having an oxidation state of −1. In compounds like OF₂, oxygen shows +2 oxidation state, and in H₂O and HClO, it shows the usual −2 oxidation state.