Beryllium and Oxidation Numbers

The video tutorial explains how to find oxidation numbers for each element in beryllium hydride (BeH2). It starts by identifying BeH2 as a neutral compound, meaning the oxidation numbers sum to zero. Beryllium, being in group two of the periodic table, has a +2 oxidation number. Hydrogen, when bonded to a metal like beryllium, has an oxidation number of -1. The video concludes by verifying that the sum of oxidation numbers equals zero, confirming the neutrality of the compound.

What does the absence of a positive or negative sign after beryllium hydride indicate?

• It has an unknown charge.

• It is a radioactive compound.

• It is a charged compound.

• It is a neutral compound.

Which group in the periodic table does beryllium belong to?

• Group 4

• Group 3

• Group 2

• Group 1

What is the oxidation number of beryllium in beryllium hydride?

• +1

• -1

• 0

• +2

When hydrogen is bonded to a metal, what is its oxidation number?

• 0

• +1

• +2

• -1

What is the sum of the oxidation numbers in a neutral compound like beryllium hydride?

• +1

• +2

• 0

• -1