Question

The sum of the oxidation states of all the carbon atoms present in the compound $C_6{H}_{5}CHO$ is:

• A. $-4$
• B. $3$
• C. $+5$
• D. $-4/7$

Answer 1

The correct option is A $-4$

As we know that sum of oxidation state of all atoms in a compound is equal to the total charge on that compound.

$\therefore \text{In}{C}_6{H}_{5}CHO$-

Let the oxidation state of carbon in $C_6{H}_{5}CHO$ be x.

$\therefore 6\times x+5\times 1+x+1+(-2)=0$

$\Rightarrow 7x=-5-1+2=-4$

As there are seven carbon atoms are present in the compound, the sum of oxidation state of all the carbon atoms will be $7x$, i.e. $-4$.