Oxidation Numbers

Front

What is an oxidation number?

Back

The oxidation number is a value that represents the total number of electrons an atom either gains or loses when it forms a chemical bond.

Front

What is the oxidation number of an element in its standard state?

Back

0

Front

What is the oxidation number of hydrogen in most compounds?

Back

+1

Front

What is the oxidation number of oxygen in most compounds?

Back

-2

Front

What is the oxidation number of alkali metals in compounds?

Back

+1

Front

What is the oxidation number of alkaline earth metals in compounds?

Back

+2

Front

What is the oxidation number of halogens in compounds?

Back

-1, unless combined with oxygen or other halogens.

Front

How do you determine the oxidation number of carbon in CH4?

Back

In CH4, carbon has an oxidation number of -4.

Front

What is the oxidation number of sulfur in SO4^2-?

Back

+6

Front

What is the oxidation number of iron in Fe2O3?

Back

+3