HESI A2 Chemistry Practice Questions Related

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What is the oxidation state of the potassium ion in the compound KCl?

  • A. +1
  • B. -1
  • C. +2
  • D. -2
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the compound KCl (potassium chloride), potassium is in Group 1 of the periodic table, which means it has a valence electron of 1. Chlorine is in Group 17 and gains one electron to achieve a stable electron configuration by forming an ionic bond with potassium. As a result, the potassium ion in KCl has a +1 oxidation state. Therefore, the correct answer is +1. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not reflect the oxidation state of the potassium ion in KCl.