Question

The oxidation state of phosphorus in hypophosphoric acid is + _____

Hint:

To determine the oxidation state of phosphorus in compounds, balance the oxidation states of the other atoms in the molecule. In this case, the oxidation state of oxygen is -2 and hydrogen is +1.

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 4

Hypophosphoric acid, often denoted as H₄P₂O₆, is a chemical compound in which phosphorus exhibits varying oxidation states. To find the oxidation state of phosphorus in hypophosphoric acid, we must consider the known oxidation states of hydrogen and oxygen. Hydrogen generally has an oxidation state of +1, while oxygen typically exhibits an oxidation state of -2.

In the molecular formula H₄P₂O₆, the sum of the oxidation states of all atoms must equal zero because it is a neutral molecule. Let x represent the oxidation state of one phosphorus atom.

The equation is:

4(+1) + 2(x) + 6(-2) = 0

Simplify the equation:

4 + 2x - 12 = 0

2x - 8 = 0

2x = 8

x = 4

Thus, the oxidation state of phosphorus in hypophosphoric acid is +4. This result fits within the provided range of 4,4, confirming its validity.