Which of the following molecules represents the most oxidized state?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The molecule with the highest oxidation state will have the most oxygen atoms present, since oxygen has a higher electronegativity than carbon or hydrogen and will draw electrons away from them, leaving them in a higher oxidation state. In choice D, there are four oxygen atoms present, while the other choices only have three or fewer, indicating that it is the most oxidized state.

Which of the Following Molecules Represents the Most Oxidized State