Consider the following compounds: KO2, H2O2 and H2SO4. The oxidation state of the underlined elements in them are, respectively:

Question

Consider the following compounds:

KO2, H2O2 and H2SO4. The oxidation state of the underlined elements in them are, respectively:

1. A. +1, -1, and +6 (Correct answer)
2. B. +2, -2, and +6
3. C. +1, -2, and +4
4. D. +4, -4, and +6

Correct Answer

Option A — +1, -1, and +6

Detailed Solution & Explanation

The correct answer is +1, -1, and +6.

Key Points

• KO$_2$ (potassium superoxide): alkali metal K is always +1 (the O is the superoxide ion, $-\tfrac{1}{2}$).
• H$_2$O$_2$: it is a peroxide, so each O is -1.
• H$_2$SO$_4$: with H = +1 and O = -2, sulphur is +6.