Q41 - Nomenclature of inorganic compounds

The correct answer is C) An oxyacid.

HClO (hypochlorous acid) contains hydrogen, a non-metal (Cl) and oxygen, and releases H⁺ in water: this is the definition of an oxyacid. It forms when the acidic oxide reacts with water: Cl₂O + H₂O → 2 HClO.

A) Incorrect: An acidic oxide contains only a non-metal and oxygen, with no hydrogen (such as Cl₂O).

B) Incorrect: Hydroxides combine a metal with OH⁻ (such as NaOH) and are basic. HClO contains no metal.

C) Correct: H + non-metal + O, and acidic: an oxyacid.

D) Incorrect: An acid anhydride is a non-metal oxide such as Cl₂O, with no hydrogen.

E) Incorrect: Hydrohalic acids (HCl, HBr…) contain no oxygen.