How many electrons are transferred when the perchlorate ion is converted to chloride?
A)8
B)7
C)9
D)6
E)5

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The perchlorate ion (ClO4-) is converted to chloride (Cl-) by gaining 7 electrons to reduce the oxidation state of chlorine from +7 in ClO4- to -1 in Cl-. However, the question asks for the number of electrons transferred, not the change in oxidation state. Since the perchlorate ion is already negatively charged (-1), and it gains 7 more electrons, a total of 8 charges are transferred to neutralize the ion and further reduce it to chloride.

How Many Electrons Are Transferred When the Perchlorate Ion Is