The oxidation states of the two lead atoms in Pb3O4 can be represented as

Options

  • A. All three are +2
  • B. All three are +4
  • C. Two are +2 and one is +4
  • D. One is +1 and two are +3
  • E. Two are +1 and one is +4

Correct Answer (Detailed Explanation is Below)

C. Two are +2 and one is +4

Detailed Explanation

Pb3O4 can be represented as 2PbO·PbO2, containing two Pb atoms in the +2 state and one Pb atom in the +4 state.