An element X has an atomic number of 16. What is its most likely oxidation state in its binary compounds?

The most likely oxidation state of element X in its binary compounds can be determined by looking at its position in the periodic table and its electron configuration. Element X has an atomic number of 16, which places it in group 16 (also known as the oxygen group) of the periodic table. This group includes elements such as oxygen, sulfur, and selenium. The elements in this group have six valence electrons, meaning they need two more electrons to complete their outermost shell and attain a stable octet configuration. Based on this information, the most likely oxidation state for element X in its binary compounds would be -2. This is because in binary compounds, the element will typically gain two electrons to achieve a stable octet configuration. Therefore, it will have a charge of -2 to balance the positive charge of the other element in the compound. So, option -2 is the correct answer.