MHT CET202618 April 2026Evening ShiftChemistryp Block Elements (Group 15, 16, 17 & 18)Actual
What is the oxidation state of chlorine in its weakest oxoacid?
Options
- A+1
- B-1
- C+3
- D-3
Correct answer
A. +1
Step-by-step solution
The oxoacids of chlorine are HClO , HClO₂ , HClO₃ , and HClO₄ . The acidic strength of oxoacids of a halogen increases with an increase in the oxidation number of the halogen atom. As the number of oxygen atoms increases, the electron density is pulled away from the O-H bond, making it easier to release an H^+ ion. The order of acidic strength is HClO Therefore, the weakest oxoacid of chlorine is hypochlorous acid, HClO . Let the oxidation state of chlorine in HClO be x . The typical oxidation state of hydrogen is