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General Science • ChemistryMedium

What is the oxidation state of manganese in the permanganate ion (MnO4-)?

A. +4
B. +6
C. +7✓ Correct Answer
D. +5

💡 Solution & Explanation

In the permanganate ion, the overall charge is minus one, and each oxygen atom is assigned an oxidation state of minus two. By setting up the algebraic sum of oxidation numbers equal to the net ionic charge, the oxidation state of manganese is calculated to be plus seven. This high oxidation state accounts for its powerful oxidizing properties in chemical reactions.

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