If the oxidation state of h is +1 and o is −2, what is the oxidation state of c in c2h4o? −1 +2 +1 −2

-1

Explanation:

The sum of the oxidation states of all the atoms in a neutral compound is zero. Then the following equation must be satisfied:

number of atoms of C * oxidation state of C + number of atoms of H * oxidation state of H + number of atoms of O * oxidation state of O = 0

Replacing with data and calling the unknown x, we get:

2*x + 4*1 + 1*(-2) = 0

2*x + 2 = 0

x = (-2)/2

x = -1

atomic number of carbon is 6

electronic configuration of carbon is 1s²2s²2p²

orbital diagram of carbon is as shown here in the image.

the answer is definitely c.