To determine the oxidation state of chlorine in the given disinfectants HOCl and ClO₂, let's analyze them step by step:

1. HOCl (Hypochlorous Acid):

• The chemical formula is HOCl.
• Assign oxidation states:
  • Hydrogen (H) = +1
  • Oxygen (O) = -2
  • Let the oxidation state of chlorine (Cl) = x.

The sum of the oxidation states in a neutral compound equals 0. Thus:

$(+1) + (x) + (-2) = 0$

Simplify:

$x - 1 = 0 \implies x = +1$

Oxidation state of Cl in HOCl is +1.

2. ClO₂ (Chlorine Dioxide):

• The chemical formula is ClO₂.
• Assign oxidation states:
  • Oxygen (O) = -2
  • Let the oxidation state of chlorine (Cl) = x.

The sum of the oxidation states in a neutral compound equals 0. There are 2 oxygen atoms, so:

$x + 2(-2) = 0$

Simplify:

$x - 4 = 0 \implies x = +4$

Oxidation state of Cl in ClO₂ is +4.

Final Answer:

1. HOCl: Oxidation state of chlorine = +1
2. ClO₂: Oxidation state of chlorine = +4

Let me know if you'd like detailed explanations or further clarification on oxidation states! Here are some related questions you might want to explore:

1. How do oxidation states of chlorine vary in different compounds?
2. Why is chlorine in HOCl a better disinfectant than chlorine in ClO₂?
3. How can oxidation states be verified experimentally?
4. What are the roles of oxygen in determining oxidation states?
5. How do different disinfectants compare in their effectiveness against bacteria?

Tip: When determining oxidation states, always remember that the total sum equals the charge of the molecule or ion. For neutral molecules, it is 0.