Which carbon atom is in the MOST oxidized state?
A) a carbon in an alkyl group
B) a carbon in a ketone group
C) a carbon in carbon dioxide
D) a carbon in a carboxylic acid group
E) a carbon in an alcohol group

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In carbon dioxide, both carbon atoms have a formal oxidation state of +IV, meaning they are fully oxidized and have lost all of their electrons to oxygen atoms. Therefore, they are in the most oxidized state possible.

Which Carbon Atom Is in the MOST Oxidized State