Courses
Courses for Kids
Free study material
Offline Centres
More
Store Icon
Store
seo-qna
SearchIcon
banner

What is the oxidation state of K in KO2?
A)-1
B)-2
C)+1
D)0


Answer
VerifiedVerified
439.8k+ views
like imagedislike image
Hint: For solving this question, we need to consider that K here is an alkali metal. And here KO2 is a neutral molecule. We will assign it with the net charge of 0 for further finding out the oxidation state.

Complete step by step answer:
Firstly, we need to see that KO2 has K i.e. potassium which is a member of group 1. So, it can readily react with oxygen. We know that, as we move down the group the tendency of forming peroxides and superoxides increases.
So, as we know KO2 is a superoxide of potassium. In KO2, let’s consider that the oxidation number of oxygen is x.
Therefore, 1 + 2x = 0
Since, we know that K= +1 and KO2​ is a neutral molecule. It has only one electron in its valence shell and can only take the +1 oxidation state.
Here, K shows an oxidation state of K+ where as other half forms O2. Thus, KO2is paramagnetic in nature.
To find the oxidation state we can easily do it by using the formula which is the sum of the oxidation states of all the elements present in the compound is equal to the net charge present on the compound. In the case of KO2we have seen that K belongs to group 1 so it will always possess an oxidation state of +1.

The option C is correct answer.

Note:
In case we have to find the oxidation state of O in KO2 then we will consider x. Since KO2is a neutral molecule so it has a net charge equal to zero on the compound.
So,1+2x=0
Thus, the value of x=-1/2
Therefore, the Oxidation state of O in KO2 is -1/2.
Latest Vedantu courses for you
Grade 11 Science PCM | CBSE | SCHOOL | English
CBSE (2025-26)
calendar iconAcademic year 2025-26
language iconENGLISH
book iconUnlimited access till final school exam
tick
School Full course for CBSE students
PhysicsPhysics
ChemistryChemistry
MathsMaths
₹41,848 per year
Select and buy