Which option corresponds to the chlorate ion?

The chlorate ion is represented by the chemical formula ClO3-. The definition of a chlorate ion includes one chlorine atom centrally positioned, bonded to three oxygen atoms, with a charge of -1. This composition is essential in understanding its behavior in chemical reactions, as chlorates are known for their oxidizing properties.

In contrast, the other options represent different ions: the hypochlorite ion, ClO-, contains one oxygen atom; the chlorite ion, ClO2-, comprises two oxygen atoms; and the perchlorate ion, ClO4-, includes four oxygen atoms. Each of these ions has a distinct chemical composition, which leads to different chemical properties and reactivity, differentiating them from the chlorate ion. Thus, identifying the correct formula for the chlorate ion helps differentiate it from its related species in the chlorate series.