Question

What is the range of the oxidation state shown by phosphorus in its oxoacids?

• A. $+1$ to $+3$
• B. $+1$ to $+5$
• C. $+2$ to $+4$
• D. $+1$ to $+2$

Answer 1

The correct option is B $+1$ to $+5$

Phosphorus forms oxoacids with a wide range of oxidation states where the oxidation state varies from $+1$ in hypophosphorus acid $\left(H_{3}P{O}_2\right)$ to $+5$ in orthophosphoric acid $\left(H_{3}P{O}_4\right)$.