What is the oxidation state of chlorine in hypochlorous acid?

Options

A. `+1`
B. `+3`
C. `+5`
D. `+7`

Answer

To determine the oxidation state of chlorine in hypochlorous acid (HClO), we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Write the formula for hypochlorous acid
The chemical formula for hypochlorous acid is HClO.

### Step 2: Assign oxidation states to known elements
- Hydrogen (H) typically has an oxidation state of +1.
- Oxygen (O) typically has an oxidation state of -2.

### Step 3: Set up the equation using the oxidation state method
Let the oxidation state of chlorine (Cl) be represented as \( X \). Since hypochlorous acid is a neutral molecule, the sum of the oxidation states must equal zero. Therefore, we can set up the following equation:

\[ X + (+1) + (-2) = 0 \]

### Step 4: Simplify the equation
Now, simplify the equation:

\[ X + 1 - 2 = 0 \]

This simplifies to:

\[ X - 1 = 0 \]

### Step 5: Solve for \( X \)
Now, solve for \( X \):

\[ X = 1 \]

### Conclusion
The oxidation state of chlorine in hypochlorous acid (HClO) is +1.

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