Question

What is the oxidation state of phosphorus in hypophosphoric acid?

• A. $+1$
• B. $+2$
• C. $+3$
• D. $+4$

Answer 1

The correct option is D $+4$

Hypophosphoric acid, represented chemically as $H_4{P}_2{O}_6,$ is an oxoacid of phosphorus. The oxidation state of phosphorus in hypophosphoric acid is $+4$. The two phosphorus atoms in total form $4$ single bonds with $-OH$ group, two double bonds with oxygen and one single bond between the two phosphorus atoms.