What is the primary oxidation state of chlorine in potassium chloride (KCl)?

What is the primary oxidation state of chlorine in potassium chloride (KCl)?

Correct Answer: -1

Step 1: Identify the chemical formula of potassium chloride, which is KCl.
Step 2: Recognize that potassium (K) is an alkali metal and typically has an oxidation state of +1.
Step 3: Understand that in a neutral compound, the total oxidation states must equal zero.
Step 4: Since potassium has an oxidation state of +1, the oxidation state of chlorine must balance it out to make the total zero.
Step 5: Calculate the oxidation state of chlorine: +1 (from K) + x (from Cl) = 0.
Step 6: Solve for x: x = -1.
Step 7: Conclude that the oxidation state of chlorine in potassium chloride (KCl) is -1.

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