Question

The oxidation state of $Cl$ in $CaOC{l}_2$ (bleaching powder) is/are:

• A. +1 only
• B. -1 only
• C. +1 and -1
• D. None of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is C +1 and -1

Bleaching powder $CaOC{l}_2$ can be represented as:
$Ca\left(OCl\right)Cl$ from which we can determine the . O.S of Cl
O.S of Ca is +2 and O is -2
Hence,
$CaOC{l}_2\to C{a}^{+2}+(OCl{)}^{-}+C{l}^{-}$
In $OC{l}^{-}$ if O.S of Cl is x then
-2 + x =-1
So x = +1
and in $C{l}^{-}$ O.S is -1
Hence Bleaching powder has both +1 and -1 O.S of Cl