Question

If oxidation numbers of X, Y and Z are +2, +3 and -4 respectively, then possible formula of the compound will be

• A. XY₂Z₂
• B. X₂Y₃Z₄
• C. X₃Y₂Z
• D. X₂Y₂Z

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

XY₂Z₂

Answer 2

For a neutral compound, the sum of oxidation numbers must be zero. Let the formula be $X_a Y_b Z_c$. Then, $a(+2) + b(+3) + c(-4) = 0$, which simplifies to $2a + 3b - 4c = 0$. We need to find integer values for a, b, and c. If we choose $a=1$ and $b=2$, then $2(1) + 3(2) = 2 + 6 = 8$. For the sum to be zero, $4c$ must equal 8, so $c=2$. Thus, a possible formula is $XY_2Z_2$.