Question

The oxidation number of oxygen in peroxides is __.

• A. -1
• B. -2
• C. +1
• D. 0

Hint:

The oxidation number of oxygen in peroxides is -1, which is a special case. This is in contrast to oxygen's usual oxidation state of -2 in most other compounds.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Oxidation Numbers in Peroxides:
Typically, oxygen's oxidation number is -2. In peroxides, however, oxygen atoms are linked via an O–O single bond, modifying their oxidation state.

Peroxide Example:
Hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)

H₂O₂ Calculation:
Assign x as the oxidation number for each oxygen atom.
Hydrogen's oxidation number is +1.
The molecule's net charge is 0.
The equation is:
(2 × +1) + (2 × x) = 0, which simplifies to 2 + 2x = 0, yielding x = -1.

Result: Option 1: -1