What is the oxidation state of manganese in potassium permanganate, $KMnO_4$?
A+4
B+5
C+6
D+7CORRECT
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Why the answer is D, and why the others tempt you.
In KMnO₄, potassium has an oxidation state of +1 and each oxygen is −2. Using the rule that the sum of oxidation states in a neutral compound equals zero: +1 + Mn + 4(−2) = 0, giving Mn = +7. This is a well-known compound where manganese exhibits its highest common oxidation state.
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