Question

Among the oxoacids of chlorine which is the best oxidizing agent and why?
A. $HCl{O}_4$
B. $HCl{O}_3$
C. $HCl{O}_2$
D. $HClO$

Answer 1

1. An element having a higher oxidation number is considered to be a good oxidizing agent. 2. The oxidizing power of a compound increases with the increase in the oxidation number of the atom.
3. The oxidizing agent is normally in one of its higher possible oxidation states because it will gain electrons and be reduced.

4. We will calculate the oxidation number of the chlorine molecule in each of the given compounds.

5. In $HCl{O}_4$
The oxidation number of Cl = 1 + x + ( - 2)×4 = +7

6. In $HCl{O}_3$
The oxidation number of Cl = 1 + x + ( - 2)×3 = +5

7. In $HCl{O}_2$
The oxidation number of Cl = 1 + x + ( - 2)×2 = +3

8. In HClO
The oxidation number of Cl = 1 + x + ( - 2) = + 1

9. Hence, the oxidation number of the chlorine atom in $HCl{O}_4$ is the highest, that is +7 10. So, we can conclude that $HCl{O}_4$ is the strongest oxidising agent, the correct Conclusive statement- answer is Option A .