What is the oxidation number of Cl in HClO4?

Understand the Problem

The question is asking to determine the oxidation number of chlorine (Cl) in the compound hydrochloric acid (HClO4), also known as perchloric acid. To find the oxidation number, we need to analyze the oxidation state of the chlorine atom based on its bonds with other atoms and the overall charge of the molecule.

More Information

The oxidation number of chlorine in HClO4 is determined by using the known oxidation states of hydrogen (+1) and oxygen (-2) and balancing them against the overall charge of the molecule, which is zero. This helps in concluding that chlorine has an oxidation number of +7.

Tips

A common mistake is forgetting to balance the overall charge of the molecule, leading to incorrect determination of oxidation states.

Sources

• What is the oxidation number of Cl in HClO4? - ECHEMI - echemi.com
• What is the oxidation number of H and Cl in HClO_4 respectively?+1 ... - toppr.com
• Calculate the oxidation number of chlorine in perchloric acid - homework.study.com