What is the oxidation number of carbon in `C_(3)O_(2)` ( carbon suboxide ) ?

Options

A. `+4//3`
B. `+10//4`
C. `+2`
D. `+2//3`

Explanation

To find the oxidation number of carbon in carbon suboxide (C₃O₂), we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Identify the Compound**: We are given the compound C₃O₂, which consists of 3 carbon atoms and 2 oxygen atoms.

2. **Assign Oxidation Number Variables**: Let the oxidation number of carbon be represented by \( X \).

3. **Use the Oxidation Number Rules**:
- The sum of the oxidation numbers in a neutral compound is equal to zero.
- The oxidation number of oxygen is typically -2.

4. **Set Up the Equation**:
- For the 3 carbon atoms, the contribution to the total oxidation number is \( 3X \).
- For the 2 oxygen atoms, the contribution is \( 2 \times (-2) = -4 \).
- Therefore, we can set up the equation:
\[ 3X + (-4) = 0 \]

5. **Solve for X**:
- Rearranging the equation gives:
\[ 3X - 4 = 0 \]
- Adding 4 to both sides results in:
\[ 3X = 4 \]
- Dividing both sides by 3 gives:
\[ X = \frac{4}{3} \]

6. **Conclusion**: The oxidation number of carbon in C₃O₂ (carbon suboxide) is \( +\frac{4}{3} \).