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General Science • ChemistryHard

What is the oxidation state of the central manganese atom in potassium permanganate?

A. Plus four
B. Plus five
C. Plus six
D. Plus seven✓ Correct Answer

💡 Solution & Explanation

In potassium permanganate, potassium has an oxidation number of plus one and each oxygen atom has minus two. Summing the oxidation numbers across the formula and equating the total to zero reveals that manganese exhibits an oxidation state of plus seven. Other oxidation states like plus four and plus six occur in manganese dioxide and manganates respectively. Potassium permanganate is a powerful oxidizing agent used in titrations and water treatment.

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