What is the ocxidation state of CI in HCIO2?

Answer 1

HClO2

As a yardstick, always use oxygen at '-2' . There are a number of exceptions, but when learning oxidation states, think!!! Oxygen ; -2.

In HClO2 there are two oxygens hence 2 x -2 = -4 for the oxygen component.

Hence the 'H' & 'Cl' must sum to '+4' ; for the neutrally charged molecule.

So 'H' can only oxidise one electron , then 'H' is '+1' . This leaves '+3' for the chlorine component.

So Chlorine is in oxidation state '+3'

Oxidation states of atoms in a molecule refer to the number of electrons in the outermost energy shell that are involved in bonding. Since 'H' has only one electron it can only use that one electron to bond hence its oxidation state is '+1'. However, a chlorine atom has seven electrons in its outermost electron shell, three of these electrons are involved in bonding with the oxygen and hydrogen .

NB; Chlorine has the ability to Disproportionate, that is both loose and gain electrons. Think water and chlorine forming HCL & HClO.

Hope that helps!!!!

Answer 2

I assume that's supposed to be Cl (capital C, lower case L). The formal oxidation state of chlorine in chlorous acid is +3.