How do you work out the oxidation number of a atom in a compound?

To work out an oxidation state of an atom you need to assign the electrons on the atoms outer shell to the most electronegative atom.O>N>C>H. Electrons in the outer shell of two of the same atoms are shared equally. If a atom contains an electron own pair the electrons belong to the atom holding the loan pair. Oxygen normally has the oxidation state of negative 2, and Hydrogen normally exists with a plus 1.A neutral compound should have an oxidation state of 0.

CH
Answered by Charles H. Chemistry tutor

1500 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Explain the reasons for the changes in reactivity of Phenol, Benzene and MethylBenzene


(See word doc for complete info) An experiment is carried out whereby the decomposition of hydrogen iodide is observed. Given the equilibrium compositions of each species, calculate the initial mass of hydrogen iodide.


How do ionic charge and radius affect lattice enthalpy?


Explain the trend in reactivity of group 2 elements with water as you go down the group.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences