Question

The oxidation number of chlorine in $ \text{Cl}_2 \text{O} $ is:

• A. \( +1 \)
• B. \( -1 \)
• C. \( 0 \)
• D. \( +3 \)

Hint:

Remember: In compounds, the sum of oxidation states of all elements must equal the overall charge of the molecule. Oxygen typically has an oxidation state of \( -2 \).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Recall oxidation number rules
In a molecule, the sum of all atom oxidation states is zero.
Oxygen's oxidation number is typically \( -2 \), while chlorine's can vary. 
Step 2: Assign oxidation numbers
In \( \text{Cl}_2 \text{O} \), there are two chlorine atoms and one oxygen atom. 
- Assign \( x \) as the oxidation number for chlorine. 
- Oxygen's oxidation number is \( -2 \). 
The sum of oxidation numbers in \( \text{Cl}_2 \text{O} \) equals zero: \[ 2x + (-2) = 0 \] \[ 2x - 2 = 0 \] \[ 2x = 2 \] \[ x = +1 \] 
Answer:
The oxidation number of chlorine in \( \text{Cl}_2 \text{O} \) is \( +1 \). Therefore, option (1) is correct.