Common oxidation states of copper in its compounds are

Options

A. `+1, +2`
B. `+1, +3`
C. `+2, +3`
D. `+2,+4`

Answer

To determine the common oxidation states of copper in its compounds, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Identify the Atomic Number and Electronic Configuration of Copper:**
- Copper (Cu) has an atomic number of 29.
- Its electronic configuration is [Ar] 4s¹ 3d¹⁰.

2. **Determine the Possible Oxidation States:**
- The outermost electron in the 4s subshell can be easily removed, leading to an oxidation state of +1.
- Additionally, copper can lose two electrons (one from the 4s and one from the 3d subshell), resulting in an oxidation state of +2.

3. **Examples of Compounds:**
- **Cuprous Chloride (CuCl):** In this compound, copper has an oxidation state of +1.
- **Copper(II) Sulfate (CuSO₄):** In this compound, copper has an oxidation state of +2.
- **Copper(II) Nitrate (Cu(NO₃)₂):** Here, copper also has an oxidation state of +2.

4. **Conclusion on Common Oxidation States:**
- The common oxidation states of copper in its compounds are +1 and +2. The +1 state is less common compared to the +2 state.

### Final Answer:
The common oxidation states of copper in its compounds are +1 and +2.

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