Which choice gives the correct oxidation numbers for all three elements in Ca(ClO)₂ in the order that the elements are shown in the formula? A)+2, +1, -2 B)+2, -2, +1 C)+2, -3, +2 D)-2, +2, -1 E)-2, +3, -2

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Calcium (Ca) has an oxidation number of +2. In the chlorite ion (ClO2^-), chlorine (Cl) typically has an oxidation number of +3, and oxygen (O) has an oxidation number of -2. However, the question asks for the order in the formula Ca(ClO)2, which is Ca, Cl, O. Therefore, the correct oxidation numbers are +2 for Ca, +1 for Cl, and -2 for O.

Which Choice Gives the Correct Oxidation Numbers for All Three