What is the oxidation state of carbon in CHCl3?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for the determination of the oxidation state of the carbon (C) atom in the compound chloroform (CHCl3). To find the oxidation state, we will consider the typical oxidation states of the other atoms (hydrogen and chlorine) involved, and use the sum of oxidation states in a neutral compound must equal zero.
Answer
+2
The final answer is +2
Answer for screen readers
The final answer is +2
More Information
In CHCl₃, the oxidation state of carbon can be calculated by assigning oxidation states to each element (H = +1, Cl = -1) and solving for C. The balance of charges (x + 1 + 3(-1) = 0) gives x = +2.
Tips
Always remember to consider the individual oxidation states of each element in the compound and ensure the total sum equals the charge of the molecule.