What is the oxidation number of Cl in HClO₄?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. +7
- Step 1: The oxidation numbers in a neutral compound add up to zero (H is +1, O is −2). Step 2. Solving for Cl gives +7. Answer: +7. Why not the others: +5 is what you get if you miscount the oxidation numbers of the other atoms. +3 is what you get if you miscount the oxidation numbers of the other atoms. +1 is what you get if you miscount the oxidation numbers of the other atoms.
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