Oxiation state of chlorine in Chlorous acid is

Options

A. `+2`
B. `+3`
C. `-1`
D. `-2`

Answer

To determine the oxidation state of chlorine in chlorous acid (HClO2), we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Write the chemical formula
The chemical formula for chlorous acid is HClO2.

### Step 2: Assign known oxidation states
In this compound:
- The oxidation state of hydrogen (H) is +1.
- The oxidation state of oxygen (O) is typically -2.

### Step 3: Set up the equation
Let the oxidation state of chlorine (Cl) be represented as \( x \). The overall charge of the molecule is neutral (0). Therefore, we can set up the equation based on the oxidation states:

\[ \text{Oxidation states sum} = 0 \]
\[ (+1) + (x) + 2(-2) = 0 \]

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

\[ 1 + x - 4 = 0 \]
\[ x - 3 = 0 \]

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

\[ x = +3 \]

### Conclusion
The oxidation state of chlorine in chlorous acid (HClO2) is +3.

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