Question

Potassium superoxide is the inorganic compound with the formula, KO₂. It is a yellow solid that decomposes in moist air. It is a rare example of a stable salt of the superoxide ion. Which of the following statement is incorrect regarding potassium superoxide?

(a) Oxidation state of oxygen in KO₂ is - 1/2

(b) Oxidation state of potassium is +1

(c) It is used in preparation of breathing mask

(d) It is a reducing agent

Answer 1

Answer is : (d) It is a reducing agent

KO₂ is a very good oxidising agent KO₂. It is even more good oxidising agent than K₂O₂.