Question

In all oxides, peroxides and superoxides, the oxidation state of alkali metals is.

• A. +1 and -1
• B. +1 and +2
• C. +1 only
• D. +1, -1 and +2

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

+1 only

Answer 2

: In all oxides, peroxides and superoxides, the oxidation state of the alkali metals is + 1.

$M_{2}O:2x + ( - 2) = 0 \Rightarrow x = + 1$

(In oxide O is present as $O^{2 -}$)

$M_{2}O_{2}:2x + ( - 2) = 0 \Rightarrow x = + 1$

(In peroxide O is present as $O_{2}^{2 -}$)

$MO_{2}:x - 1 = 0 \Rightarrow x = + 1$

(In superoxide O is present as $O_{2}^{-}$)