HESI A2 Chemistry Practice Test Related

Review HESI A2 Chemistry Practice Test related questions and content

What is the typical oxidation state of oxygen in most compounds?

  • A. -1
  • B. -2
  • D. -3
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: "-2". Oxygen usually exhibits an oxidation state of -2 in most compounds. This is due to oxygen's high electronegativity, which causes it to attract electrons, leading to the gain of two electrons in chemical reactions. Choice A (-1) is incorrect because oxygen rarely has an oxidation state of -1 in compounds. Choice C (0) is incorrect as oxygen does not usually have an oxidation state of zero in compounds. Choice D (-3) is incorrect as oxygen does not commonly have an oxidation state of -3 in compounds.