Question

Which of the following compounds of carbon has highest oxidation state?

• A. $C{H}_4$
• B. $C{H}_{3}OH$
• C. $C{H}_{2}O$
• D. HCOOH

Answer 1

The correct option is D HCOOH

Oxidation number of carbon in $C{H}_4$=$\frac{2\times 0-4}{1}$=-4

Oxidation number of carbon in $C{H}_{3}OH$=$\frac{2\times 1-4}{1}$=-2

Oxidation number of carbon in $HCHO$=$\frac{2\times 1-2}{1}$=0

Oxidation number of carbon in $HCOOH$=$\frac{2\times 2-2}{1}$=+2

$HCOOH$ has highest oxidation state.