Question

Assertion (A) In the species, $Br _{3} O _{8}$ each of two extreme bromine exhibits oxidation state of $+6$ and the middle bromine of $+4$.
Reason (R) The average of three oxidation numbers of bromine of the $Br _{3} O _{8}$ is $16 / 3$.

• A. Both $A$ and $R$ are correct; $R$ is the correct explanation of $A$.
• B. Both $A$ and $R$ are correct; $R$ is not the correct explanation of $A$.
• C. $A$ is correct; $R$ is incorrect.
• D. $A$ is incorrect; $R$ is correct.

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

The structure of $Br _{3} O _{8}$ (tribromooctaoxide) is

Thus, oxidation state of two corner $Br$ atoms is $+6$ and of middle one is $+4$. The difference in oxidation states is due to difference in bonding situations.
Average oxidation state $=\frac{+6+4+6}{3}=\frac{16}{3}$
Thus, both $A$ and $R$ are correct but $R$ is not the correct explanation of $A$.