Which of the following represents the chlorate ion?

The chlorate ion is represented by the chemical formula ClO3^-. This ion is composed of one chlorine atom bonded to three oxygen atoms, resulting in a net negative charge of one. This specific arrangement gives it properties that are distinctive compared to other chlorine-oxygen species.

Chlorate, being part of a series of oxyanions that include chlorite (ClO2^-), perchlorate (ClO4^-), and hypochlorite (ClO^-), can be differentiated based on the number of oxygen atoms bonded to the chlorine. The number of oxygen atoms directly correlates to the oxidation state of the chlorine in the ion; in chlorate, the oxidation state of chlorine is +5.

Understanding the distinction between these anions is crucial for grasping concepts in chemistry related to oxidation states, chemical reactivity, and ion formation. The chlorate ion's role is significant in various chemical reactions, including those involving chlorine-based compounds.