Oxidation state of mercury in amalgam , calomel and corrosive sublimate is

Options

A. `0,+1,+2`
B. `+1,+1,+2`
C. `+1,+2,+1`
D. `0,+1,+1`

Answer

To determine the oxidation states of mercury in amalgam, calomel, and corrosive sublimate, we can analyze each compound step by step.

### Step 1: Understand Amalgam
- **Definition**: Amalgam is an alloy of mercury with one or more other metals (e.g., silver or gold).
- **Oxidation State**: Since amalgam is a mixture and does not involve a chemical reaction, the oxidation state of mercury (Hg) in amalgam is **0**.

### Step 2: Analyze Calomel
- **Definition**: Calomel is also known as mercurous chloride and has the chemical formula \( \text{Hg}_2\text{Cl}_2 \).
- **Oxidation State Calculation**:
- The formula indicates that there are two mercury atoms and two chloride ions.
- Let the oxidation state of mercury be \( x \).
- The equation can be set up as follows:
\[ 2x + 2(-1) = 0 \]
- Simplifying gives:
\[ 2x - 2 = 0 \implies 2x = 2 \implies x = +1 \]
- **Conclusion**: The oxidation state of mercury in calomel is **+1**.

### Step 3: Investigate Corrosive Sublimate
- **Definition**: Corrosive sublimate is another name for mercuric chloride, with the chemical formula \( \text{HgCl}_2 \).
- **Oxidation State Calculation**:
- Here, let the oxidation state of mercury again be \( x \).
- The equation can be set up as follows:
\[ x + 2(-1) = 0 \]
- Simplifying gives:
\[ x - 2 = 0 \implies x = +2 \]
- **Conclusion**: The oxidation state of mercury in corrosive sublimate is **+2**.

### Final Summary
- **Amalgam**: Oxidation state of Hg is **0**.
- **Calomel**: Oxidation state of Hg is **+1**.
- **Corrosive Sublimate**: Oxidation state of Hg is **+2**.