The actual oxidation states of the terminal and central bromine atoms in the structure of tribromooc — Redox Reactions and Volumetric Analysis Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

The structure of $Br_3O_8$ consists of a linear chain of three Bromine atoms ($O_3Br-BrO_2-BrO_3$). The terminal $Br$ atoms form 6 bonds with oxygen (three double bonds), yielding an O.S. of +6. The central $Br$ forms 4 bonds with oxygen (two double bonds), yielding an O.S. of +4.