Redox Reactions and Volumetric AnalysishardMCQ SINGLE

In Carbon suboxide (), the mathematically calculated average oxidation state and the actual structurRedox Reactions and Volumetric Analysis Chemistry Question

Question

In Carbon suboxide ($C_3O_2$), the mathematically calculated average oxidation state and the actual structural oxidation states of the carbon atoms are respectively:

Answer: A

💡 Solution & Explanation

Let the average O.S. of C be $x$. $3x + 2(-2) = 0 \Rightarrow x = +4/3$. Structurally, carbon suboxide is linear ($O=C=C=C=O$). The terminal carbons are attached to oxygen (+2), while the central carbon is attached only to other carbons (0).

💬
Still have doubts about this question?
Send it to our AI chemistry tutor on WhatsApp — gets answered in minutes
Ask on WhatsApp →

Practice 22,000+ questions like this

AI-adaptive practice, video lectures, and full IChO (Chemistry Olympiad) content — all in one place.

JEE Advanced · JEE Mains · NEET · IChO · AP Chemistry