Question

Oxidation number of potassium in $K_{2}O$, $K_2{O}_2$ and $K{O}_2$, respectively, is:

• A. $+2$, $+1$ and $+\frac{1}{2}$
• B. $+1$, $+4$ and $+2$
• C. $+1$, $+1$ and $+1$
• D. $+1$, $+2$ and $+4$

Answer 1

The correct option is C $+1$, $+1$ and $+1$

Alkali metals always possess +1 oxidation state, whereas oxidation state for oxygen present in $K_{2}O$ (oxide) is -2, and in $K_2{O}_2$ (peroxide) is -1 and in $K{O}_2$ (superoxide) is $-\frac{1}{2}$.